IPL 2024 will be a long season, meaning the teams will have to use their bowlers wisely. Generally, bowlers tend to get injured in long tournaments, which is why the teams will have to take care of their workload. Plus of course, the team management should try to get the maximum out of every player.
In previous seasons, fans have observed how the Kolkata Knight Riders promoted Sunil Narine as an opener. Narine’s wicket did not add any value in the lower order, but he took advantage of the fielding restrictions and went hard against the bowlers in the powerplay. It led to significant success for the Kolkata Knight Riders in the powerplay, especially on batting-friendly surfaces.
In this listicle now, we will look at four such bowlers whom the IPL 2024 teams can try out as a pinch-hitting opener.
1. One of the top bowlers in IPL 2024 – Umesh Yadav
After two good seasons with Kolkata Knight Riders, Umesh Yadav has now moved to the Gujarat Titans in the IPL. While GT have a settled opening pair in Wriddhiman Saha and Shubman Gill, the team management can think outside the box and use Yadav as a pinch-hitter.
2. One of the top bowlers in IPL 2024 – Mohammed Shami
Another GT fast bowler to feature on the list is Mohammed Shami. The right-arm seamer is known for his big hits irrespective of the pitch and conditions. A player like him can score quickfire runs at the top of the order.
3. Deepak Chahar
Deepak Chahar is more of a bowling all-rounder, but he has not received enough opportunities at Chennai Super Kings to showcase his talent as a batter. Perhaps, MS Dhoni can give him chances at the top of the order in IPL 2024.
4. Harshal Patel
Punjab Kings are known for experimenting a lot. The Preity Zinta-owned franchise signed Harshal Patel for a massive sum in IPL 2024 Auction. Patel has done well as a batter in domestic cricket, and he can be tried out as an opener if needed.
