Chris Lynn keen to captain KKR in IPL 2018
What's the story
Kolkata Knight Riders are facing a dilemma; who will lead the side in IPL 11. KKR didn't retain their most successful skipper, Gautam Gambhir. Gautam will play for Delhi Daredevils, after spending 7 years with KKR and guiding them to 2 IPL titles. Now, opener Chris Lynn has thrown his hat into the ring by saying he would be keen to captain the side.
Inexperienced
Lynn was KKR's best performer last season
Chris Lynn, who is relatively inexperienced in IPL, was one of KKR's top performers last season, before injury halted his free-scoring spree. The hard-hitting right-handed batsman scored 295 runs in 7 matches at an average of 49.16 and a breathtaking strike rate of 180.98. This is exactly why KKR forked out Rs. 9.6 cr for his services.
Quote
Will KKR hand over captaincy to big buy Lynn?
"I'd love to, I'd jump at the opportunity. But there're a couple of boys that have been in the IPL for 10 years so you can't ignore their experience, especially in their own backyard...if given the nod then I'd jump at the chance." Lynn said.
Vinay Kumar
But who are KKR's other options for captaincy?
If KKR's management is looking for experience, Karnataka captain Vinay Kumar can be one of the best options. The right arm seamer had a decent outing in the Ranji Trophy this year with 27 wickets in 8 matches at an average of 18.33. However, the 34-year-old has been given limited opportunities in the last two editions of IPL, having made just 4 appearances.
Robin Uthappa
One of KKR's most consistent performers
Wicket-keeper batsman, Robin Uthappa has been one of KKR's best performers over the years. Having been part of the franchise for the last four years, Uthappa is well versed with the culture and tradition of the franchise. Uthappa has also played for India in the past and his experience could help him with the captaincy.
Dinesh Karthik
Tuti Patriots captain in the Tamil Nadu Premier League
KKR forked out a hefty amount of Rs. 7.4 cr to bring Dinesh Karthik to their side. Karthik is one of the most consistent performers in IPL history and is also vastly experienced. In the 2017 edition, he scored 361 runs at an average of 36.10 for Gujarat Lions. Still, a part of the Indian side, Karthik could be a good option for KKR.