In a disappointing development for Mumbai Indians and Indian cricket fans, Jasprit Bumrah is unlikely to play in IPL 2023 and the ICC World Test Championship Final. The Indian fast bowler is still recovering from his injury. According to Cricbuzz, the team management does not wish to rush his return to the field, which is why they will wait and watch. Mumbai Indians might need a replacement for Jasprit Bumrah if he does not play in IPL 2023.
The Indian team management reportedly wants Jasprit Bumrah 100% fit for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. Hence, they are in no hurry to bring him back. If he misses IPL 2023, Mumbai Indians will need a replacement. Here are six bowlers whom the Mumbai-based franchise could target.
1. Sandeep Sharma can be replacement for Jasprit Bumrah
Capped Indian pacer Sandeep Sharma recently remained unsold at the IPL 2023 Auction. Sharma is an experienced pace bowler who can be an asset for MI in Bumrah’s absence.
2. Shahbaz Nadeem can be replacement for Jasprit Bumrah
MI have got much depth in their pace-bowling unit, which is why they can think of signing a spinner as Bumrah’s replacement. An experienced name like Shahbaz Nadeem can help MI.
3. Varun Aaron
In case MI decide to have a fast bowler as a replacement, express pacer Varun Aaron can be an option. He won IPL 2022 with the Gujarat Titans last year.
4. Dhawal Kulkarni
Former Mumbai Indians pacer Dhawal Kulkarni has achieved a lot of success with the Mumbai-based franchise. The local lad could be a fine addition to the MI squad for IPL 2023.
5. Barinder Sran
Another former Mumbai Indians pacer to feature on the list is Barinder Sran. He is an left-arm option, who did well for India in white-ball cricket in the past.
6. Basil Thampi
Kerala fast bowler Basil Thampi played for MI last season. Even though he did not have his best season, MI can think of giving him one more chance to prove himself.