IPL 2019: 3 players who can replace Steve Smith

James Neesham

The hard-hitting all-rounder from New Zealand has struck golden form at the moment. In the first ODI against Sri Lanka, the left-handed batting all-rounder blasted his way to an imperious 47 off 13. He followed it up with a well-paced 64 off 37 and looked absolutely on song with the willow throughout the series. Neesham can chip in with a couple of overs every now and then and his death-bowling skills are enough to save those extra 10-15 runs.

The 28-year-old Kiwi international would like the small grounds in India and the pitches easy to bat on, suited to his style of play. Rajasthan Royals would be a force to reckon with if James is roped in as the replacement of Steve Smith. Neesham has only played four matches for Delhi Daredevils, now Capitals, back in 2014.