3 players Rajasthan Royals could have opted for instead of Heinrich Klaasen, to replace Steven Smith

The 11th season of IPL is slated to kick start from April 7th with arch-rivals Mumbai Indians (MI) taking on Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Image result for sand paper gate steve smith press

With less than 10 days remaining for the cricket extravaganza, Rajasthan Royals were dealt a severe blow as their only retained player, Steve Smith, was banned from playing in the 2018 IPL due to his involvement in the recent sandpaper gate.

Rajasthan Royals have chosen the Titans' and Proteas wicket-keeper batsman, Heinrich Klaasen as the replacement for Steve Smith. Although Klaasen is not a bad option, here is a list of players that Rajasthan Royals could have chosen instead:

#3) Lendl Simmons

In 2016 ICC T20 World Cup semifinals against India, Lendl Simmons anchored the Windies innings after the Caribbeans losing Chris Gayle in the second over itself. Simmons played an exemplary role and led the West Indies to the 2016 ICC T20 World Cup finals.

He was named as the replacement for the injured Jalaj Saxena in 2014. Playing in four consecutive seasons for Mumbai, he has scored 1,079 runs in 29 matches averaging close to 40 (39.96). He boasts an IPL century as well.

Why Lendl Simmons?

Simmons is a dashing opener who can provide a good batting option for any team. With his vast T20 experience, he could have provided solidity to the Royals side. Moreover, he has performed exceptionally when he has come in as a replacement in the past.