4 capped Indian pacers whom Mumbai Indians can sign as Jasprit Bumrah's replacement
IPL 2023 is set to start soon. Ahead of the season, confirmed reports from various sources have suggested that Jasprit Bumrah would not play IPL 2023 due to an injury. In this article, we take a look at four capped Indian pacers whom Mumbai Indians can sign as Jasprit Bumrah's replacement.
Mumbai Indians are heavily reliant on Bumrah in the pace department. Since Jofra Archer is also coming back from an injury, it was important for Bumrah to be there. However, in his absence, the team would have major difficulties in the bowling unit. MI could invest in someone experienced and they do have some options to consider.
1) Sandeep Sharma
Sandeep Sharma is one option which MI can consider. The former Punjab Kings pacer is impactful in the powerplay and with the 'Impact Player' rule in the picture, MI can afford to finish Sandeep's quote at the start of the innings. Sandeep almost guarantees wickets with his swing. Wankhede would also be a decent venue for him to ply his trade with the new ball. Therefore, he is on this list.
2) Varun Aaron
Varun Aaron is one of the capped Indian pacers whom Mumbai Indians can sign as Jasprit Bumrah's replacement. Varun has been inconsistent off-late but on his day, with his pace and hit-the-deck abilities, the player can be useful for the franchise. Also, he boasts of a lot of experience, having been a part of the tournament for a very long time. In fact, he won the trophy last year with Gujarat Titans. There are days when he could go wrong but this is a risk MI cannot avoid right now in this situation.
3) Sandeep Warrier
Sandeep Warrier played for India in 2021. He is good in the powerplay and with his height, he could also be a decent option as an enforcer. Since not too many options are available right now, considering the scenarios, Sandeep is a realistic option for the five-time champions.
4) Dhawal Kulkarni
Dhawal Kulkarni is also one of the capped Indian pacers whom Mumbai Indians can sign as Jasprit Bumrah's replacement. Even in the last season, too, when there was an injury, Dhawal came in as a replacement. The veteran has been with MI for a long time and has played at Wankhede all his life. Therefore, it is one big call that the management could take. In the absence of Bumrah, Dhawal might get a run of games and this assurance could help get the best out of the player.