'Cannot Wait…' Gerald Coetzee Reacts After Being Picked By Mumbai Indians
Coetzee was the first pick of MI in the 2024 IPL auction. (AP)
Excited and brimming with confidence for his first Indian Premier League (IPL) stint, young South African pacer Gerald Coetzee expresses his joy after being acquired by Mumbai Indians (MI) for INR 5 Crore during the IPL 2024 auction in Dubai on December 19.
In the IPL 2024 auction, held in Dubai, MI, a five-time IPL champion, successfully secured Coetzee as their first pick while searching for an overseas fast bowler.
Looking forward to donning the Blue and Gold at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Coetzee eagerly anticipates the prospect of bowling alongside the MI’s fast bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah in the upcoming IPL season.
“I cannot wait to join the Mumbai Indians team for the next IPL season. Running out at the Wankhede in the blue and gold, and bowling with Bumrah, I cannot wait. It's going to be fantastic. I'm so excited to see all of you there,” said Gerald Coetzee in a video shared by Mumbai Indians on X.
Coetzee's impactful performance in the ODI World Cup showcased his ability to unsettle batters even before releasing the ball. Despite featuring in only eight matches, the 23-year-old emerged as the fifth-highest wicket-taker and highest for the Proteas. His remarkable skills and positive demeanor during the World Cup naturally made him a sought-after player in the IPL auction.
Mumbai Indians secured Coetzee for a substantial INR 5 crore, emphasizing his potential contribution to the team. A true Wankhede surface, known for its assistance to fast bowlers, sets the stage for Coetzee to showcase his wicket-taking abilities across different phases of the innings.
The bowling partnership between Coetzee and Bumrah is poised to be a formidable force for MI. With Bumrah leading the charge in both powerplay and death overs, Coetzee's inclusion adds depth to their bowling arsenal. Beyond his bowling prowess, Coetzee's batting skills make him more than just a specialist bowler. His temperament and all-round capabilities position him as a valuable asset for Mumbai Indians.