RCB must move on and replace injured players quickly

RCB has been one of the most fancied sides in the IPL for a number of years now. The Virat Kohli-led team arguably has the most dynamic batting line-up in the tournament with the likes of Chris Gayle, AB De Villiers, Shane Watson and Virat Kohli himself in their ranks. An injury to a number of players, including the skipper Kohli, has jolted their campaign a wee bit.

In their quest for a maiden IPL title, RCB must respond to this challenge as quickly as possible. They need to recognise cricketers who can possibly play similar roles of the players who are out injured. One such name that springs to mind is Baroda all-rounder: Irfan Pathan. The 32-year old Pathan, surprisingly, did not attract any bids in the IPL auctions held in February and currently doesn’t have a contract with any franchise. RCB can rope him in, for he could add experience in their squad and play a crucial role with both bat and ball.

A veteran of 29 Tests, 120 ODI’s and 24 T20’s; Pathan hasn’t played for India since 2012. He currently captains his state side Baroda in the Ranji Trophy and has produced decent all-round performances for the team. He was also a part of the West Zone side which played the final of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Inter Zonal Trophy.

While Pathan has always been there and thereabouts in the domestic competitions, an India recall has remained a far-fetched dream. He could, though, play a crucial role in the RCB squad. His batting has improved considerably in the past few years as he now averages over 30 in first-class cricket. He can shoulder the responsibility of getting quick runs in the lower middle order. With 169 T20 wickets in 171 games, Pathan will be more than handy with the new as well as the old ball. He swings the new ball into the right-handers and has developed the cutters over the years which are a must during the middle overs of a T20 innings.

All in all, RCB can ponder over this option. Pathan’s inclusion will not only give their side experience, but also add balance to their squad.