IPL 2022: RCB rope in uncapped Afghanistan spinner Izharulhaq Naveed as net bowler

As per the latest developments, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have roped in uncapped Afghanistan leg-spinner Izharulhaq Naveed as a net bowler for the 2022 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Izharulhaq confirmed the same by sharing a picture with the RCB jersey on Instagram. Notably, Izharulhaq, 18, was a part of Afghanistan’s squad in the Under-19 World Cup earlier this year.

The leg-spinner was pretty impressive in the competition, having scalped four wickets in six games at a phenomenal economy rate of 3.63. He now has a chance to make a mark against prominent RCB batters in the nets. It will indeed be a great learning curve for Izharulhaq as he will get to bowl against the likes of Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis and Glenn Maxwell.

An impressive show in the nets can also earn Izharulhaq an IPL contract in coming years. Notably, Afghanistan have formed a reputation of producing quality spinners. While the likes of Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman have already made a significant mark in IPL, Izharulhaq would like to follow his senior countrymen’s footsteps.

Here’s Izharulhaq Naveed’s Instagram story:

RCB to play under new skipper Faf du Plessis

Meanwhile, Royal Challengers Bangalore will wear a new look this season as the side went under a massive revamp during the mega auction last month. Former South African skipper Faf du Plessis will lead the team this season, with Virat Kohli stepping down from the role following the conclusion of the last season.

The 37-year-old certainly has a job in hand as the IPL trophy is still elusive for RCB. Although the Bangalore-based team has qualified for the final thrice, they are yet to taste the glory. Nonetheless, they would be determined to end the drought this season. After all, the side has roped in the likes of Dinesh Karthik, Josh Hazlewood and Wanindu Hasaranga in the bidding event, alongside Du Plessis.

Meanwhile, IPL 2022 will be a 10-team affair with two new teams – Lucknow Super Giants and Gujarat Titans – coming into the picture. Hence, for the very first time since the 2011 season, 10 teams will battle it out in the gala competition. The tournament is set to get underway on March 26 with Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders battling it out in the opening fixture.