3 Replacements For Steyn, RCB Will Be Eyeing Up : RCB will be looking to strengthen their bowling attack with Steyn ruled out
Advertisement
A rejuvenated Royal Challengers Bangalore side, one easing past sides with comfort in the last couple of matches couldn’t have been hit with a worse setback. With their massive turnaround in form putting them in contention for a top 4 spot ahead of the business end of the tournament, the Virat Kohli lead franchisee were rattled with the news of losing Dale Steyn for the remainder of the tournament.
The fast bowler, who was signed up by the Challengers for his base price of Rs.1.5 crore, returning to RCB’s setup after a hiatus of almost 10 years to replace the injured Nathan Coulter-Nile, has suffered a shoulder inflammation which has confirmed his absence for RCB’s remaining campaign. The development comes across as a major setback to the franchisee with Steyn being one of the reasons for their upheaval in fortunes. With him in the side, RCB were able to peg back teams in the opening stages of the match, pummelling them with early inroads to construct a successful framework of wins.
Dale Steyn has been prescribed with ample rest due to inflammation in his shoulder. On account of state of his health, Dale will not be available to take part further in the ongoing season of IPL.
His presence has helped the team immensely and we are very thankful for the inspiration and passion that he brought to the squad. The team will deeply miss his energy and presence around. We wish him a speedy recovery and all the luck for all future endeavours.” said RCB in a statement released.
With the side winning their previous three encounters, the season has finally started overturning for the side. Resurgent, a relentless outfit will be eyeing up possible replacement for Steyn in accordance with the Player Regulations, from the Registered and Available Player pool at the earliest to bolster their bowling unit and continue their bid for a top 4 finish.
3 Possible Replacements For Steyn
Dan Christian
Unsold at Rs. 1.5 crore, Christian who last played for CSK in the 2018 edition of the league could be someone who the Challengers could consider to come in place of Steyn. A fast bowling all-rounder, Christian will not only help shore up a shay lower middle-order for RCB especially with Moeen Ali leaving but also come handy with his 4 overs of pace.
He’s played 40 matches in the trounamnet, picking up 34 wickets and scoring 446 runs. An ideal replacement for Steyn especially giving he has no international commitments.
Chris Jordan
At just Rs.1 crore, Chris Jordan could be someone to fill the gaping hole left in RCB’s side. He’s familiar with the land of the Indian Premier League, having played 11 matches in the world’s favourite T20 league. With 12 wickets in the matches we walked out in the middle, Jordan can also wield his bat around effectively in the death overs, an additional area which could see RCB swing his way.
James Pattinson
Suffering a lower back injury that kept him out for the majority of 2018, Pattinson subsequently lost his place in the Australian side which also saw him miss out on an IPL playing berth. As he looks to revive his career and put forward a stake for the Ashes to be played in the closing stages of this year, the Challengers could be the ideal franchisee for him to come play for.
It’s an outside shout if Virat Kohli and the team management would consider roping him in but one who won’t be the worst of replacements.
Also Read : List of Ipl Team Owners
