Reports: KXIP sign up Hashim Amla in as a replacement for Shaun Marsh

Kings XI Punjab were dealt a huge blow when their most consistent batsman Shaun Marsh was ruled out of the remainder of IPL 2016 season on Monday due to a back injury. Marsh joined the long list of cricketers who injured themselves during the ongoing season and have been ruled out. ESPNcricinfo reported that KXIP have roped in South Africa batsman Hashim Amla as a replacement for Marsh who picked up the injury during their game against Kolkata Knight Riders on 19th of April. He was carrying the niggle in the game against Gujarat Lions which they won, he played throughout but reported discomfort.

As per the reports, most of the formalities are underway or have been cleared and Amla is set to join the team soon. In his T20 career, Amla has featured in 88 matches and has scored 2446 runs. He has been able to maintain an average of 31.35 and has struck his runs with a good strike rate of 125.95. He has played 37 T20Is for South Africa scoring 1008 runs with the best of 98* at an average of 31.50, he has maintained a healthy strike rate of 129.06 in T20Is, he also has 5 half centuries to his credit.

If things turn out as stated Kings XI will certainly find a stable batsman in their squad who they can bank on. They can also opt to open with Hashim Amla who though isn’t a like to like replacement for Shaun Marsh who is a more aggressive batsman but will certainly add strength to their batting department.

As many as 13 players have been injured thus far – List of Injured players in IPL 2016