After a prolonged break in the sporting world due to global pandemic situation, prominent international cricketing action is already up and running.
The excitement of resumption of cricket will grow multi-folds once the thirteenth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) kicks off in the UAE, on September 19.
The cash-rich league will be played in a biosecure environment, following the recent norms stipulated by the ICC, for the resumption of cricket.
As desperate times need desperate measures, the Standard of Procedure (SOP) dictates that an IPL franchise can only carry a 24-member squad unit.
It means franchisees have to look at the option of trimming down their touring party, to send the troops in the Middle-East. The Rajasthan Royals (RR) already have a 25-member squad.
With an array of international superstars and Indian U19 talent, one of the local cricketers has to face the axe in the Royals’ camp.
Today, let’s have a look at the five possible option from RR camp, the management may overlook for the upcoming edition:
1. Mahipal Lomror
With the talent of Riyan Parag impressing several pundits and overseas stars in the previous season, namely Steve Smith, 20-year-old Mahipal Lomrur may face the axe from the IPL team management.
Due to the resemblance of their roles, the Royals might have to brainstorm between the two. Based on past performances, Parag has a better chance to feature in the 24-member Royals’ squad for IPL 2020.
2. Akash Singh
U19 World Cup sensation, Akash Singh is also in danger of losing his berth in the squad, in the presence of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Kartik Tyagi.
Akash lit up the U19 world tournament in South Africa with his impressive bowling. However, carrying three U19 stars might prove to be a luxury for the Royals.
3. Shashank Singh
With the new SOP regulations, the place of Shashank Singh in the Royals squad would also be debated.
Given the experience of Robin Uthappa and Manan Vohra in the IPL, the Royals might look at compromising with Shashank’s place in the squad.
4. Aniruddha Joshi
With age catching up, Joshi’s place in the Royals’ lineup may be brought into scrutiny.
Royals already have a star-studded spin lineup in the form of Shreyas Gopal, Mayank Markande and Rahul Tewatia who have a substantial amount of IPL experience.
Therefore, RR may overlook Joshi’s place in the 24-member squad, which takes part in the world’s biggest competition.
5. Anuj Rawat
Royals already have quality wicket-keeper batsmen in the form of Jos Buttler and Sanju Samson, along with the part-time option of Uthappa.
The Jaipur-based franchise might ponder over booking Anuj Rawat’s ticket to the UAE for IPL 2020.
