IPL 11: Possible replacements for injured Mitchell Starc
What's the story
Mitchell Starc's injury comes at the worst possible time for Kolkata Knight Riders. With IPL only a week away, the Knights will now have to find an able replacement for their premier bowler. Starc, who was bought for Rs. 9.4 crore, suffered a tibial bone stress fracture in his right leg. Here are some potential replacements for Aussie Mitchell Starc.
Best option?
Josh Hazlewood- Australia
With Starc's IPL injury woes continuing, fellow Australian Josh Hazlewood can be a viable option for KKR. The strike bowler is currently playing against South Africa in the 4th Test. He may not be as quick as Starc, but Josh is a wicket-taking asset with consistency on offer. He hasn't played much T20Is, but experience in ODIs and Tests would help him get rolling.
Clever figure
James Faulkner- Australia
The 27-year-old Australian James Faulkner is a sound player and has vast experience in IPL. He has picked 59 wickets in six seasons of IPL. The left-arm bowler is superb with slower balls and bowls variety of cutters. Faulkner is a respected talent in T20s and has even excelled in Big Bash League. He had a Rs. 2 crore base price but went unsold.
Talented
Junior Dala- South Africa
One of the promising talents in South African domestic cricket, Junior Dala rose to fame in the T20I series against India earlier this year. In three matches, the pacer picked seven wickets with his best performance of 3/35. He dismissed Rohit Sharma in all the 3 games. Dala's raw pace makes the 28-year-old a genuine contender and an able replacement for Starc.
Rising star
Tom Curran- England
Curran is one of the genuine young talented players set for a great future. The English pacer is excellent both at the death and with the new ball. His yorkers are a delight as well. He did not find any takers in the auction, but this could be the moment for the 23-year-old to make a mark. He has 7 wickets in 6 T20Is.