IPL 2017: The replacement XI
The upcoming edition of IPL has seen injuries hamper the prospects of many sides. Several big names have chosen to prioritise their fitness, keeping in mind the Champions Trophy which kicks off 10 days after the IPL finals.
The absence of many stars, including the likes of Virat Kohli, Quinton de Kock, R Ashwin and Murali Vijay, who anchor their respective teams, has brought down the excitement among fans in the lead up to the event.
Also read: IPL 2017: The Injured XI
Some of the biggest names in cricket were unlucky not to make the cut in the auctions this year, but have since been going through a purple patch. With many franchises having already replaced their injured players, the talent scouts of the remaining teams are going to have a hard time securing the services of players who have been putting in good performances.
Here are 11 players who can feature in an IPL ‘Replacements’ XI, and can be effective stand-ins for the injured players.
#1 Michael Klinger
The Australian first-class veteran was a member of the Kochi Tuskers Kerala in their only season. His performances in that season were modest and he ended up without a side after the Tuskers wound up.
However, he has been going through a Brad Hogg-esque late-career bloom, having made his T20 debut for the Baggy Green in the recently concluded series against Sri Lanka. He ended up as the highest run-getter in the series, and his experience at the top order can help any side that manages to secure his services.