The five-time IPL champions, Mumbai Indians (MI), have announced Luke Wood as a replacement for Jason Behrendorff for the upcoming 2024 season. Injured Behrendorff’s absence creates a temporary void in the fast-bowling department, joining Dilshan Madushanka and Gerald Coetzee on the sidelines due to injuries.
Madushanka, who suffered a hamstring injury during a recent ODI against Bangladesh, and Coetzee, recovering from pelvic inflammation, are expected to miss the initial matches but are not ruled out for the entire season. MI is yet to announce replacements for these two players.
Despite the setbacks, the Hardik Pandya-led franchise maintains a strong bowling attack. The core group features the experienced Jasprit Bumrah, along with rising talents like Akash Madhwal and Nuwan Thushara. Notably, Arjun Tendulkar also finds himself in the mix, and Pandya himself has confirmed his bowling availability.
Luke Wood brings international T20 experience to the table, having played in leagues like the PSL, BBL, and BPL. With 147 wickets in 140 T20 matches, the England international, signed for a base price of INR 50 lakhs, is poised for his IPL debut this season. Wood’s arrival adds depth and variety to the MI pace attack.
Behrendorff, acquired by MI in a trade with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for the 2023 season, unfortunately misses out this year. RCB had initially bought him for INR 75 lakhs in the 2022 auction.
With the season fast approaching, Mumbai Indians will be hoping their injury concerns are short-lived. The combination of experience and fresh talent in their bowling attack, bolstered by Wood’s addition, promises an exciting brand of cricket for their fans.
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