DUBAI: West Indies captain Darren Sammy has said that most players around the world look forward to play in the cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL) and their primary goal is to entertain fans.

The exuberant cricketer from St Lucia, known for his lively on-field celebrations, is a part of the IPL franchise Sunrisers Hyderabad.

“It is a great feeling to be playing IPL as it as an amazing tournament. Most players around the world look forward to be part of it. It’s being held for the first time in the UAE and I am told tickets are selling like crazy. As players, our role is to come and entertain the fans who come out to watch us,” Sammy told the Gulf News on Sunday.

Sammy said he has got over the disappointment of not being able to defend the World T20 title in the recently concluded ICC World Twenty20 in Bangladesh. The West Indies crashed out of the tournament after losing to Sri Lanka in the rain-marred first semi-final.

“I’ve got over it [the disappointment of World T20]. When we left home for Bangladesh, we wanted to defend our title but we could not control the weather.

“From the semi-final, god was smiling on Mahela [Jayawardene] and [Kumar] Sangakkara. Though I won’t say my prediction came true, it was nice to see Sri Lanka win the tournament. It was disappointing we were not in the final but ultimately cricket was the winner,” he said.

Sammy, who is also the vice-captain of the Sunrisers, said they have a well-balanced team with a blend of experienced international and Indian players.

“The team looks a very balanced one as we have a few experienced guys, some very good internationals and Indians as well. I was talking to the coach and we are very happy with the combination of the squad we have now and are looking forward to start the tournament.

“Hopefully, everybody could gel well as we have players from all over the world and when you come into a dressing room like this, it is important to gel well. Sunrisers are known for being a family-oriented team. Last year, we developed a good chemistry with the guys we look forward to do that again.”

When asked about the difference of playing in the IPL and in the World T20, he said: “It will be pretty much the same. The only difference will be the venue, but it will be the same basics and principles of the game will not change.

“What IPL does is players who were part of my team [in Bangladesh] will be competing against me and my team-mates — who were part of the opposite team — will be now my own team-mates and competing together.

“There is always pressure — whether you are a captain or a player. Whether you play for the national team or franchise, you always have to go out and do well. There is pressure but it all depends on how you handle it. I enjoy the game whether I am playing for West Indies or Sunrisers. I just go out and give the best and enjoy it,” he said.