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Xtra Time Web Desk: Newly appointed Kolkata Knight Riders Captain Eoin Morgan has hailed Dinesh Karthik’s incredibly selfless attitude as he chose to step down from captaincy. The England World Cup winning captain took over the captaincy from Karthik.

“I think it's incredibly selfless and it also shows a lot of courage from him to do that, putting the team first ahead of him being skipper. I'm delighted to continue the leadership role within the side, obviously captain and not vice captain now, but hopefully continue to work alongside our players.”

On being asked whether it came as a surprise to being handed over the captaincy mid-way stage into the tournament, Morgan said, “I was surprised as well. DK informed yesterday that he would like to step back and focus on his batting as he feels that's the best option for the team. Honestly it sort came as out of the blue. I am delighted to be in the leadership role in the team.”

Talking about the road ahead for KKR, Morgan said, “We are only halfway through the tournament at the moment, we have showed some potential, haven't quite achieved majority of it yet but tonight will be another good test and hopefully we'll be up to it. I have continued to be myself, within any good side around the world, you have to have a number of leaders within the change room. I think we have them in abundance.”

The England white-ball skipper added that Karthik will continue to be a part of the leadership group.

“Between myself and Dinesh, we can be at the forefront of that, but the driving engine is the guys behind us,” signed off Morgan.