Reports: Taskin Ahmed likely to join Lucknow Super Giants as Mark Wood's replacement

As per the latest developments, Lucknow Super Giants are likely to rope in Bangladesh pacer Taskin Ahmed as Mark Wood’s replacement for the 2022 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). The England fast bowler, who was bought for a whooping 7.5 crore in the mega auction last month, has been ruled out of the upcoming season due to an elbow injury.

The Lucknow-based franchise is now looking to get Taskin on board as Wood’s replacement. Notably, Taskin, who’s yet to make his IPL debut, can set the speed gun on fire and his ability to move the new ball makes him a significant asset. However, the 27-year-old has been accused of getting wayward with his line and length. Nonetheless, Lucknow’s mentor Gautam Gambhir seems to rate Taskin pretty high as he wants to bag his services.

Gautam Gambhir keen to get Taskin Ahmed on board

As per Bangladesh website, Kaler Kanth, Gautam Gambhir called in Dhaka on Sunday evening (March 20) and made the proposal. “I want Bangladesh fast bowler Taskin Ahmed in the team and that is for the whole season. If he agrees to the offer, Taskin will have to leave for India before the next two Tests against South Africa,” the former Indian opener was quoted as saying.

Notably, Taskin, who has so far taken 23 wickets in 33 T20Is, is currently serving Bangladesh in the ongoing three-match ODI series against South Africa, which concludes on March 23. He reportedly got the news after the second ODI in Wanderers. He has asked for some time to discuss the proposal with the team management and Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). Notably, Taskin has been selected in Bangladesh’s squad for the subsequent two-match Test series against South Africa.

However, if he agrees to serve the Super Giants, he’ll have to give the Test series a miss. “Franchise cricket is a reality now. You can’t hold anyone even if you want to. BCB president Nazmul Hasan is also generous in accepting the reality,” a member of the Bangladesh team was quoted as saying by Kaler Kanth. “That’s why a key member of the team said that Taskin is more likely to get leave,” added the source.