Pollock excited about IPL moving to SA

Former South Africa captain Shaun Pollock has welcomed the decision to stage this year's Indian Premier League in his homeland. 

South Africa was chosen as the venue ahead of England after the tournament had to be moved away from India due to security concerns as it clashed with the national elections. 

The South African all-rounder played for Mumbai Indians in the opening season and even led the team in Sachin Tendulkar’s absence. He decided to terminate his three-year contract after making up his mind to retire from all forms of the game. 

However, the franchise was keen to retain the 35-year-old's services and Pollock was signed as Mumbai Indians’ advisor and mentor for the second season and third season. 

“I'm very excited with the tournament moving to South Africa. I'm sure we will be a very good host," he was quoted as saying. 

“The domestic season is finished and all the stadiums are available. The practice facilities are more than available for all the teams to use, so that part would be good.” 

"The weather going into April-May would be good. There isn't a great deal of rain that happens.” 

"The timing of the games would be right because it's in the afternoon in South Africa and prime time television watching in India, so it is all good.” 

The start date for the tournament has been switched from April 10 to April 18 with the fixtures to be announced in the coming days.