Last Updated on 5 years ago by Charbel Coorey
IPL 2021 Auction: 5 players KKR can target for IPL 2021 | Which players will KKR buy in the upcoming IPL 2021 Auction?
Kolkata Knight Riders, two-time IPL champion and one of the most decorated T20 franchises in the world, have had endured two sub-par seasons in a row. Despite boasting some of the biggest names and power-hitters in the world, KKR have endured poor form in their last two campaigns, which resulted in them missing the playoffs on both occasions.
So, heading into IPL 2021, KKR will be looking to plug some key holes to return to the playoffs and challenge for the Title once again. Led by Eoin Morgan, they have just 10.75cr remaining, so will need to play strategically in this mini-auction. Here are five players they can target to have a better season this time around:
Also read: This article is part of CricBlog’s IPL series. Check out 5 players other IPL teams could buy in 2021:
- Mumbai Indians
- Chennai Super Kings
- Royal Challengers Bangalore
- Delhi Capitals
- Sunrisers Hyderabad
- Rajasthan Royals
- Kings XI Punjab
1. Alex Hales
One area that KKR struggled in IPL 2020 was the opening position. Sunil Narine’s poor run of form didn’t help, and KKR tried other options such as Rahul Tripathi and Nitish Rana without too much success.
One player they can look to target is Alex Hales. On the road to redemption after issues with England’s management over the past few years, Hales enjoyed a rich vein of form in the recently-concluded BBL. He top-scored, thumping 543 runs in 15 matches at an average of 38.78 and strike rate of 161.60.
With Hales going hard at one end, this will allow the classy Shubman Gill to go about his work and build a strong foundation for KKR’s powerful middle order.
2. Avi Barot
If KKR would like to have a domestic opener, then Avi Barot can be a good option. The 28-year old has been in sparkling form, smashing scores of 93 (44) and 122 (53) in consecutive matches last month in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
In 20 T20 matches, Barot boasts a strike rate of 146.62. By joining a lineup with such a star-studded middle order, Barot can play with freedom at the top of the order, which will serve both he and KKR well.
3. Kedar Devdhar
Another opening option KKR could go for is Kedar Devdhar. The opening batsman, who plays for Baroda, was recently the second-highest run-scorer in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Devdhar scored 349 runs in eight matches at an average 68.9, which has caught the attention of the Knight Riders.
His strike rate of 113 in the recent tournament is one area to improve. However, like Barot, Devdhar can really benefit by playing for KKR, as the potential for an excellent opening partnership is there.
4. Krishnappa Gowtham
Another area KKR had an issue with is their number seven all-rounder spot. Krishnappa Gowtham could be a handy, value-for-money purchase for the franchise, as he has shown some promising signs in the IPL before.
Despite having a poor 2020 season for Kings XI Punjab, Gowtham still boasts an excellent batting strike rate of 169.09 in 24 IPL matches. Also, his 13 wickets shows he can fill in with important overs that can support the likes of Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav throughout the season.
5. Ben Cutting
If KKR are after a backup option for the injury-prone Andre Russell, then Ben Cutting can be a mighty fine pick. Cutting, who can be the value-for-money purchase that the Knight Riders need, is coming off a good BBL season.
Playing for the Thunder, Cutting struck 280 runs in 15 matches at an average of 40 and strike rate of 156.42. He also looked good with the ball, and Eoin Morgan can look to use him more than the Sydney Thunder did. He can certainly send the ball a long way as a finisher, which can be very handy for KKR throughout the season should Russell be unavailable.
Also read: This article is part of CricBlog’s IPL series. Check out 5 players other IPL teams could buy in 2021:
- Mumbai Indians
- Chennai Super Kings
- Royal Challengers Bangalore
- Delhi Capitals
- Sunrisers Hyderabad
- Rajasthan Royals
- Kings XI Punjab
