As per reports, Suryakumar Yadav could miss the first two games of the upcoming IPL 2024. It is a big blow for Mumbai Indians because the SKY is the best batter in the team. Nevertheless, MI has some backup options that can step up in the absence of SKY. On that note, here, we take a look at two players who could replace Suryakumar Yadav if he misses the first few games of IPL 2024.
1) Vishnu Vinod
Vishnu Vinod is likely to be the first-choice backup for SKY. He is someone who can play at various batting slots. Even last season, he had a good cameo while playing in the middle order. Vishnu is an experienced cricketer and would be a good choice in the middle order for Mumbai Indians.
It is also wise that MI has Vishnu Vinod ready as the backup keeper. Ishan Kishan could be inconsistent and MI cannot afford that for long. Hence, if Ishan has to be dropped, Vishnu can directly get a spot in the playing XI. Hence, he is on this list.
2) Nehal Wadhera
Nehal Wadhera is one of the players who could replace Suryakumar Yadav if he misses the first few games of IPL 2024. The Punjab youngster played mostly in the lower middle order in his debut campaign last season. However, considering he has done well in other domestic games, it is worth considering him for a higher batting slot.
Wadhera is a left-hander and is good against the spinners. Him and Tilak Verma in the middle overs against spin could be the ideal way forward. Hardik Pandya and Tim David are better suited to take on the faster bowlers. This way, MI could balance the batting unit. Nehal also offers a bit of spin, something that can be useful if Piyush Chawla does not arrive in good form.
Suryakumar Yadav is doubtful for the first 2 games in IPL 2024. [PTI]
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