IPL 2020: Kolkata Knight Riders left with lot to do at the auctions
Captain Dinesh Karthik and Kolkata Knight Riders management will have a lot to ponder in the upcoming IPL auction on 19th December. The two-time IPL champions have only 14 players in the squad, the second smallest roster in the current setup. They arrive at the auction with a heavy purse and will seek improvement in their performance after finishing the last season in 5th place. Here are key concern areas for the East Indian team.
An overseas middle-order batsman
The current middle order of the Knight Riders includes Indian names alongside the big-hitter Andre Russell. Siddhesh Lad, Nitish Rana, Rinku Singh and Dinesh Karthik form the core batting unit. Of these four, only Karthik has played at the international level. This may turn out to be a worry for the captain. KKR should target an experienced overseas middle-order batsman who can bolster this lineup. They do have options like Eoin Morgan or Glenn Maxwell available.
A backup spinner
Knight Riders do not have to worry about their pace bowling stocks. Not only do they have speed guns at their disposal, but they also possess ample ammunition in store. However, their spin department currently consists of only two men – Kuldeep Yadav and Sunil Narine. Yadav has had a few issues since the last season and he was dropped by the for a few matches as well. In such circumstances, KKR need to ensure that they have enough options to roll over a team on turning tracks.
A destructive opener
Kolkata Knight Riders released Australian opener, Chris Lynn, ahead of the auctions. He was being paired with Narine at the top to form one of the most destructive opening combinations in the IPL. His absence now leaves a gaping hole in KKR’s plans. They do have an option in Shubman Gill who is currently one of the brightest talents in India. However, on a safer side, the side needs to look forward to signing a hard-hitting opener. They may as well go back to Lynn or can target Evin Lewis who was released by Mumbai Indians.
It is wonderful to have you all ? in the squad for #IPL2020 ?#KKR #KorboLorboJeetbo @NitishRana_27 @rinkusingh235 Sandeep Warrier @ShivamMavi23 pic.twitter.com/1WlFMnzeeo
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) November 18, 2019
