Jasprit Bumrah has established himself as a formidable player in international cricket, often wreaking havoc on top-quality batting line-ups and making his presence felt on the cricket field. With an impressive record of 70 wickets in 60 T20Is at an economy of 6.62, Bumrah’s performance is nothing short of phenomenal, especially since he usually bowls during the fag end of innings.
Additionally, Bumrah has been a crucial player for the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL), taking 145 wickets in 120 matches at an economy of 7.39. However, due to a recurring back injury, the 29-year-old is unlikely to participate in the upcoming IPL season, and may even miss the probable 2021-23 World Test Championship final in June.
With Bumrah out of action, many are speculating about who will replace him in the Mumbai Indians squad. Here are five players who could potentially fill the void left by the ace pacer.
Dhawal Kulkarni
Dhawal Kulkarni has a strong track record in the Indian domestic circuit, having appeared in 92 first-class games and securing 274 wickets at an impressive average of 27.24. In the List-A format, he has taken 223 scalps in 129 matches, with an economy rate of 4.66, demonstrating his consistency across different formats.
Kulkarni has been associated with Mumbai Indians for two stints, from the 2008 to 2013 season and then again from 2020 to 2021, during which he showcased his skills on numerous occasions. The experienced paceman has played 35 matches for the five-time IPL champions, picking up 36 wickets with an economy rate of 8.09.
Given his past successes with Mumbai Indians, there is a possibility that Kulkarni could be considered for the upcoming IPL season. This could result in a reunion between Kulkarni and Mumbai Indians, which would undoubtedly be welcomed by fans and team management alike.
Mohit Avasti
Mohit Avasthi has emerged as a standout performer in the Indian domestic cricket arena since his debut in 2021. He has taken 37 wickets at an average of 27.59 in 13 first-class games and claimed 17 scalps in 12 List-A games at an economy rate of 5.50.
Avasthi carried his excellent form into the 2022 season of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he took 10 wickets in seven games for Mumbai at an economy rate of 7.88. He further impressed in the recently concluded Ranji Trophy, where he claimed 21 wickets in seven matches.
With his current form, Mumbai may contemplate adding the 30-year-old right-arm pacer to their squad for the upcoming season, which would also bring a local touch to the team. Therefore, Avasthi has the potential to be a valuable addition to Mumbai’s bowling unit.
Sandeep Sharma
Sandeep Sharma has established himself as a reliable performer in the Indian domestic circuit, having appeared in 52 first-class matches and claimed 183 wickets at an average of 27.19. In the List-A format, the skilled paceman has taken 98 scalps in 61 games, with an average of 25.79, demonstrating his proficiency in different formats.
In addition, Sandeep has been a standout performer in the high-profile T20 tournament, using his swing and bowling prowess to consistently trouble batters. With 114 wickets in 104 IPL games, at an economy rate of 7.77, the 29-year-old has proven himself to be a valuable asset in the league.
Sandeep’s ability to set the tone with the new ball makes him an attractive option for Mumbai Indians to bolster their already strong bowling lineup. As such, the team management might consider adding him to their arsenal for the upcoming 2023 season of the lucrative league.
Also, see:
Jasprit Bumrah ruled out of IPL 2023
