RCB Sign Wayne Parnell as Reece Topley's Replacement For IPL 2023
Wayne Parnell [Source: Twitter]
In a major development, Royal Challengers Bangalore have added experienced South African pacer Wayne Parnell to their squad for the remainder of the ongoing Indian Premier League season. Parnell replaces English speedster Reece Topley, who was ruled out of the tournament due to a shoulder injury.
Notably, Topley, who was bought by RCB for INR 1.90 Crores dislocated his shoulder during the team's first group-stage game against Mumbai Indians last Sunday.
As expected, he didn't participate further in the match, with David Willey replacing him in the RCB squad for their second game against Kolkata Knight Riders on Thursday.
On Friday morning, RCB took on its official social media handle to confirm Topley's unavailability for the rest of the season.
Meanwhile, Parnell's signing was expected, considering RCB needed a like-for-like replacement for Topley.
Being someone who can make the new ball talk and score some handy runs coming down the order, the 33-year-old has a plethora of experience in T20 cricket, having played in several global T20 leagues around the world.
Statistically, the veteran Proteas cricketer has 259 wickets and 1887 runs to his name in 257 T20 appearances. Furthermore, he has been a vital cog in South Africa's T20I setup, representing them in 56 matches.
Speaking of RCB, the Faf du Plessis-led outfit had a stunning start to their IPL 2023 campaign, recording a thumping win over Mumbai Indians.
However, unfortunately, they couldn't replicate the same level of success in their subsequent game, incurring a heavy 81-run defeat to the Knight Riders on Thursday night.
Up next, the Men in red will cross swords against Lucknow Super Giants in the 15th game of the tournament on Monday.
 "Debashis Sarangi")
