Michael Bracewell has been impressive in Champions Trophy [Source: AP]
New Zealand's ace all-rounder Michael Bracewell enjoyed stellar success in the Champions Trophy encounter against Bangladesh. The wily off-spinner rattled the Tigers' batting unit with his guile and variations, scalping the crucial wickets of Tanzid Hasan, Towhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah.
Interestingly, despite performing admirably in international cricket, Bracewell went unsold in the IPL mega auction last year. However, with doubts looming over several injured players' participation, there are three prominent franchises that can sign the Kiwi all-rounder as a replacement.
1. Royal Challengers Bengaluru
- Royal Challengers Bengaluru have been marred by injury setbacks ahead of the IPL 2025. While Josh Hazlewood hasn't recovered from a side injury, Jacob Bethell was ruled out of the competition due to hamstring injury.
- RCB have a decent pace attack comprising Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Nuwan Thushara, Yash Dayal and Lungi Ngidi. So, considering that they don't have a solid spin unit, RCB might be tempted to bring Bracewell into their squad.
- Apart from striking at crucial junctures, Bracewell can score handy cameos lower down the order, thereby strengthening RCB's overall squad with his all-round prowess.
2. Kolkata Knight Riders
- Defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders have been rocked by a massive setback, with Anrich Nortje sustaining a back injury.
- Although there a high chance that KKR will replace Nortje with an overseas pacer, the management might have a look at Bracewell to boost their team for IPL 2025.
- Andre Russell's fitness has been a matter of concern for KKR over the years. With Venkatesh Iyer not giving enough confidence with the ball and Moeen Ali struggling with poor form, KKR might consider roping in Bracewell as a surprise replacement pick.
3. Lucknow Super Giants
- Rishabh Pant-led Lucknow SuperGiants are concerned by the unfortunate injury of Mitchell Marsh, as the Australian star has been ruled out of the Champions Trophy due to a back injury.
- Despite missing Marsh, LSG have a solid top order comprising Aiden Markram, Nicholas Pooran and Matthew Breetzke. On the contrary, their all-rounder department has relatively weakened after releasing Marcus Stoinis.
- Additionally, LSG don't have a single off-spin option in their squad. So, considering the playing conditions at Ekana Stadium aids in spin bowling, the Lucknow-based franchise might bring Bracewell into the team.