IPL 2021: 3 Players who can replace Pat Cummins in KKR squad

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) pacer Pat Cummins will miss the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, despite a hefty contract with his franchise. This is indeed a major blow for the two-time IPL champions as Cummins spearheaded KKR’s bowling attack in this year’s tournament until the season got suspended due to the COVID-19 crisis. The Australian speedster took nine wickets in seven games and also scored a quick-fire fifty.

Unfortunately, KKR will not enjoy Cummins’ services in the latter half of IPL 2021 due to Australia’s busy cricket calendar. On Saturday, May 29th, BCCI decided to conduct the remaining tournament in the United Arab Emirates. Although the dates and schedule are yet to come, Cummins has jolted the Kolkata-based franchise by making himself unavailable. Hence, the Shah Rukh Khan-owned team must be looking for a potent replacement.

Notably, KKR were seventh in the team standings when the season got suspended abruptly. Having lost two of their first five games, Kolkata must win six of their remaining seven games to qualify for the playoffs without any hassle. Their challenge has been even more daunting now, with Cummins pulling out of IPL 2021. Nevertheless, there are some talented pacers whom KKR can target as the Australian pacer’s replacements.

Here are three fast bowlers who can replace Pat Cummins at KKR in IPL 2021

1. Varun Aaron

Varun Aaron is one of the fastest Indian bowlers going around and has a plethora of experience behind his back. He can set the speed gun on fire, and his ability to bowl vicious bouncers and yorkers makes him a potent weapon. Although inconsistency has been an issue for Aaron, he can be a force to reckon with on his day.

With the right-arm speedster being an Indian player, his inclusion in the line-up also allows KKR to play another foreign player. Hence, someone like Lockie Ferguson and Tim Seifert, who didn’t get chances in the first phase of the competition, can be included in the playing XI. Moreover, Aaron also has a fair amount of experience in IPL.

So far, he has played 50 matches in the lucrative T20 league, scalping 42 wickets. Although his economy rate of 8.89 is a tad high, the 31-year-old is far more experienced now and can be a noteworthy addition to the side. Last season, Aaron played for Rajasthan Royals but wasn’t picked in IPL 2021 auction.