Mohammed Shami, Kwena Maphaka in IPL 2024:
The Indian Premier League 2024 kickstarts on March 22, but not without its share of pre-season drama. The Gujarat Titans have announced a massive change by replacing seasoned speedster Mohammed Shami.
Additionally, under Hardik Pandya's leadership, the Mumbai Indians have declared a replacement for Sri Lankan fast bowler Dilshan Madushanka following his recent injury on the Bangladesh tour which led him to drop out from the IPL.
Sandeep Warrior Steps in for Shami in Gujarat Team
Turning our focus to Gujarat, the franchise has roped in Sandeep Warrior as Shami's stand-in. Warrior, a former player for the Kolkata Knight Riders, is geared to make a splash. Although he has only played 5 IPL matches since debuting in 2019, Warrior's talent is undeniable, netting 2 wickets in his tenure.
Shami, suffering from an ankle injury, recently underwent surgery, sidelining him even for the T20 World Cup 2024 in June. Gujarat sealed Warrior's deal for ₹50 lakhs, following KKR's release before the IPL 2022 mega auction.
Young Kwena Maphaka Replaces Madushanka
Mumbai's latest addition is South Africa's 17-year-old Kwena Maphaka, who has shown exceptional skill in the recent Under-19 World Cup. He was overlooked in the IPL auctions but has made a significant leap joining the Mumbai team.
With captain Hardik Pandya at the helm, Mumbai Indians officially announced Maphaka's inclusion. The left-arm medium pacer debuts as an uncapped player, with a base price of ₹20 lakhs; a move that could prove to be Mumbai Indians' hidden ace in the tournament.
