5 Possible Replacements for Mitchell Starc in IPL 2018

The wait is almost over! The eleventh edition of the cricketing extravaganza, Indian Premier League (IPL) is about to kick-off in a week’s time and we can’t stop hyperventilating over the month-long exciting cricketing action we’ll get to witness from April 7. However, the spirit of excitement and enthusiasm may be a bit subdued in the Kolkata Knight Rider (KKR) camp. The two-time IPL victors are currently inflicted with a major headache, with their front-line pacer, Mitchell Starc set to miss out on the entire length of the high-octane championship.

Feisty Australian pacer, Mitchell Starc has found himself out of sorts with the IPL more than once now. Earlier, in 2917, Starc had chosen to pull out of the tournament on the eve of the auction, which marked the end of his ties with the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). This time around, after being lapped up by the KKR side for INR 9.4 crores, the star player has been ruled out of the IPL owing to a ‘tibial bone stress’ in his right leg. Armed with terror-worthy pace, impeccable accuracy, an uncanny ability to pick up crucial wickets and superb death over bowling skills, Starc’s absence is sure to haunt the KKR side. So, what can they do to fill the vacuum? Let us take a look at the 5 best replacement options that KKR can ponder upon.

1.  Morne Morkel

It came as a stunner when South African pacer, Morne Morkel went unsold in the IPL 2018 auction. Revered for his pace and ability to induce bounce, this lanky fast bowler has had his share of glory in the tournament. The previous seasons of the IPL have seen him play 70 matches and pick up 77 wickets in the process, at an average of 27.13 and a decent economy rate of 7.69. In the absence of Starc, Morkel would most definitely be the go-to bowler for the KKR side.

Considering that he’s recently chosen to quit international Cricket, Morkel is very likely to be eager to venture into the foray of the glamorous IPL. Further, Morkel has had a longstanding rapport with the KKR, having played 8 seasons for them in the span of 2009-16. With a base price of INR 75 lakhs, Morkel will be an absolute steal for the KKR side and if they’re able to acquire him, the void left by Starc is most likely to be replenished completely.