IPL 2021: Three replacement players who can be game-changers for their teams
The second leg of the 14th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) will commence on 19th September 2021 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The opening match of the second half of the tournament will be played between two heavyweights, Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians.
Also, there are several players who have been signed as replacements for the UAE leg of the Indian T20 league by various franchises. In this article, let us take a look at 3 replacements who will play a key role for their respective teams.
Tabraiz Shamsi (Rajasthan Royals)
Tabraiz Shamsi is a bowler who can stem the flow of runs, as well as scalp wickets when the situation demands him to do so. Shamsi proved his worth just a few days ago, on 4th September 2021 by scalping a five-wicket haul against Sri Lanka in the second ODI and helping South Africa to a 67-run win.
Shamsi is the 4th highest wicket-taker for South Africa in T20Is and has scalped 45 wickets at an average of 22.04. The Rajasthan side does not have an experienced overseas spinner in their arsenal, and Shamsi is the perfect option for them for the second leg of the tournament.
Tim Southee (Kolkata Knight Riders)
Pat Cummins has stated that he will be unavailable for the second leg of the IPL, and as a result, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have roped in Tim Southee. Southee is a bowler who can get the ball to move both ways, and get early wickets upfront.
Also, the 32-year-old Southee is the highest wicket-taker for New Zealand in T20I cricket and has scalped 99 wickets. Southee can also strike a few lusty blows with the willow as well. Southee’s experience will surely come in handy for the Kolkata outfit in the second leg of the IPL.
Wanindu Hasaranga (Royal Challengers Bangalore)
Wanindu Hasaranga is a crafty bowler who can flummox the batsmen, especially in limited-overs cricket. And, Hasaranga boasts of an excellent record in T20I cricket. In the 21 matches that the right arm spinner has played for Sri Lanka, he has scalped 33 wickets at a superb average of just 14.45.
Also, Hasaranga is capable of scoring a few runs with the bat as well. Washington Sundar will not be available for the RCB side for the UAE leg. Hasaranga can exploit the tracks on offer in the UAE, and prove to be pivotal to RCB’s fortunes in the second leg of the IPL.
