Irfan Pathan picks Mayank Agarwal as Kane Williamson's replacement for SRH

Mayank Agarwal was released by Punjab Kings [Source: Twitter]

In an interesting move, Sunrisers Hyderabad released legendary New Zealand batter Kane Williamson before the IPL 2023 mini-auction. After Williamson's departure, they need an opener and a captain to lead them in the tournament. 

Considering their needs, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan thinks that Mayank Agarwal could be the perfect fit in their team. 

Speaking to Star Sports, Pathan opined that Mayank's experience, both as a batter and leader, is what makes his case strong for his inclusion in the Hyderabad-based team. The Baroda-born also hailed Agarwal for his fearless and selfless batting. 

Here's what Pathan stated

"SRH will go after Mayank Agarwal because they need a kind of aggressive opener as well. They don’t have Kane Williamson right now who led them for many years as an experienced player and who used to open the innings as well, 

"Mayank Agarwal is the kind of guy who has led a side, who plays quite freely as well, very fearless, very selfless. They might be thinking of him going forward as a leader as well."

Agarwal was released by Punjab Kings after having a horrendous season with the bat in the IPL 2022. However, he is one of the few high-profile names in the auction pool, which is why we definitely expect a bidding war between several franchises to bag him. 

Also Read: Sanjay Manjrekar names two must-picks for Mumbai Indians in the IPL mini-auction