IPL 2012: Pietersen set to play for Delhi Daredevils

England batsman Kevin Pietersen will be playing for the Delhi Daredevils in the fifth edition of the IPL T20 tournament, the IPL has confirmed. He is the third player to switch teams for the 2012 season, after Dinesh Karthik was bought by Mumbai Indians from the Kings XI, in exchange for allrounder R Sathish.

Pietersen, who was a part of the Deccan Chargers for the 2011 season, could not play a single game as he had to undergo a hernia surgery after the World Cup.

The Head of GMR Sports, TA Sekhar, was delighted to have Pieterson in his franchisee and said ,” We are pleased to add Kevin to our line-up. He brings rich experience and an explosive quality to our batting and can be a more than handy offspinner as well. We are sure that Kevin will help us to be very competitive this season and the Delhi Daredevils fans will enjoy this addition.”

Pietersen, who was in the UAE preparing for England’s away series against Pakistan, was excited at the prospect of playing alongside Virender Sehwag. “Breaking News: I’ve moved from Deccan Chargers to The Delhi Daredevils.. V happy with the transfer!! Can’t wait to watch Viru from 22yds!!” wrote Pieterson on Twitter.

Before 2011, Pieterson was a part of the Royal Challengers Bangalore and had also captained them in a few games during the 2009 season.

With players like Sehwag and Warner already in the squad, Pietersen’s inclusion will be a huge boost to Delhi’s batting line-up and should help them put up a better show than they did during the 2011 season.