Defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) were dealt with a huge blow even before the start of the 12th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2019.
The South African speedster Lungi Ngidi, who played a major in CSK’s title triumph last year, was ruled out of the tournament due to injury. He was the only express fast bowler in the yellow army and his ruling out was a major setback for them and all the eyes were on his replacement.
On Saturday, the Chennai franchise announced New Zealand fast bowling all-rounder Scott Kuggeleijn as Ngidi’s replacement for the remaining of the IPL 2019.
Having made his international debut in May 2017, Kuggeleijn has represented the Blackcaps in 2 ODIs and 4 T20Is thus far. While the 27-year-old has claimed five wickets in the 50-over format, he has taken two scalps in the shortest format.
In non-international T20s, Kuggeleijn boasts an impressive record. The right-arm seamer has 67 wickets to his name from 75 matches with the best bowling figures of 4/18.
Amid the absence of a quality pacer, the Super Kings won both the matches they have played so far. In the IPL 2019 opener, they defeated Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) by seven wickets before beating Delhi Capitals by six wickets.
