Mumbai Indians Rope In Kerala Pacer To Replace Jasprit Bumrah in IPL 2023
Sandeep Warrier in action [Source: Twitter]
In a significant development, Mumbai Indians have drafted Kerala seamer Sandeep Warrier as replacement of Jasprit Bumrah to their squad ahead of the IPL 2023. Warrier replaces Bumrah, who has been ruled out of the tournament due to a back injury.
Who is Replacement of Jasprit Bumrah, Sandeep Warrier?
Warrier, 31, has a plethora of experience in T20s, having represented his state team Kerala in the Indian domestic circuit. The right-arm speedster has also represented Chepauk Super Gillis in the Tamil Nadu Premier League. Overall, Warrier has 62 wickets to his name in 68 T20 appearances at an economy of 7.20.
The ace pacer has also played five IPL matches for Kolkata Knight Riders between 2019 and 2021, claiming only two wickets at an economy of 7.88. Although he hasn't made his mark in the IPL, it seems like the Mumbai Indians have shown trust on him.
Is Warrier a good replacement?
Meanwhile, the question arises, is Warrier a decent replacement for Bumrah? The answer is an obvious no, as Bumrah has been a mainstay for the franchise, especially in the death overs.
On the contrary, Warrier doesn't possess a great bowling record in the slog overs. So, he can at best be a supportive option, particularly with the new ball, as he can move it in the air and off the pitch.
Led by Rohit Sharma, Mumbai Indians will kickstart their IPL 2023 campaign against Royal Challengers Bangalore on April 2.
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