IPL 2019: One injury replacement player for every position
The Indian Premier League is probably the most competitive T20 league in the world and the players give everything they have for the team. In such an environment, injuries are commonplace and the franchises need to be smart with their selection choices and have adequate backups. For teams who have lost key players and want to replace them, they can do so by selecting a player from the pool of unsold players.
Many stars in the IPL have come through to the big stage using this window and this has worked wonders for few teams while it has proved to be futile for others.
In this segment, let's take a look at the best options available as an injury replacement for every position.
Opener- Brendon Mccullum
Brendon Mccullum is undoubtedly the best replacement option if we are looking for an opening batter. With plenty of IPL and T20 experience and an explosive approach to the game, his attacking nature usually pays off but the last couple of seasons in the IPL haven't been great for the retired Kiwi batsman.
Things change a lot in T20 cricket, though and he could still make an impact especially because he will be available for the entire season because he doesn't have to feature in the World Cup. Mccullum can give more than what you can ask from a replacement player and might just be the best move the side makes in case they are lacking a batsman.
Batsman- Manoj Tiwary
Manoj Tiwary is clearly the standout pick from this lot because of his experience and current form. He has had an inconsistent IPL career but his recent performances for Bengal and franchises' mentality to go for experienced Indian players might trump other options who were available. Tiwary can bat anywhere from No.4 to No.7 and can masquerade as both specialist batsman or finisher though the former will be better and he is also an excellent fielder.
Someone who oozes experience and has groomed many young players in his long domestic career, he will be great to have especially as a replacement for any team. Though he expressed his disappointment at not being selected this year, he has high chances of getting back into the fray.
Wicketkeeper- Luke Ronchi
Luke Ronchi surprisingly went unsold at the auction despite possessing loads of runs in T20, great experience and a free calendar. Like Mccullum, Ronchi is a retired Kiwi keeper-batsman who has been great to watch in the T20 format. He led the Islamabad United to the title in the Pakistan Super League almost on his own and will play for the Chittagong Vikings in the Bangladesh Premier League.
Perhaps his poor outing in the T10 League held before the auction impacted teams' mind but he can certainly make his IPL debut in case a team gets an overseas wicket keeper injured. Another possible replacement will be Indian keeper Naman Ojha.