February 07, 2008	Thursday	Muharram 28, 1429

SYDNEY, Feb 6: Record-breaking Australian cricketer Adam Gilchrist said on Wednesday he was upbeat about his chances of taking part in the lucrative inaugural Twenty20 Indian Premier League.

The six-week competition kicks off in April and the 36-year-old wicket-keeper/batsman would be a huge draw, commanding a hefty pay packet.

Tournament organisers and international boards have an agreement that bans players from participating in the IPL until two years after retirement but Gilchrist said he expected to receive an exemption from Cricket Australia.

“As far as I know at the moment, Cricket Australia haven’t given me any indication they wouldn’t want me to be part of that, but I’m not 100 per cent sure,” said Gilchrist.

“We’re just trying to confirm that. It is moving quickly and we’re just trying to get a gauge of where it’s at so we’ll know more in the next few days.”

While he waits for confirmation of his IPL future, Gilchrist, the record holder for most dismissals by a wicket-keeper in Test cricket, is looking forward to renewing his rivalry with Sri Lanka in Friday’s triangular one-day series clash in Sydney.

“I’d love to produce a big score for the fans, for the team more importantly,” he said. “It has been a wonderful reception everywhere I have gone since announcing my retirement.”—AFP