On Sunday, it was announced that Kolkata Knight Riders and Gujarat Titans have concluded a trade deal. As per this move, Lockie Ferguson and Rahmanullah Gurbaz will play for KKR from IPL 2023. Here, we take a look at the reason why KKR traded Lockie Ferguson from Gujarat Titans for IPL 2023.
KKR traded Lockie Ferguson from Gujarat Titans
Kolkata Knight Riders had a few issues in the bowling department last season. Barring Umesh Yadav and to an extent Tim Southee, the team did not get good returns from its pace unit. The likes of Pat Cummins and Shivam Mavi had a disappointing campaign.
Now, despite Lockie Ferguson having an under-par campaign in IPL 2022, KKR has gone all out for its former pacer. They could have got him for a lower price at the auctions. However, as per reports, Pat Cummins will not play in IPL 2023 and hence, the team was desperate to sign an experienced pacer. With not many options available in the market, KKR was desperate for Lockie’s services. If Cummins had been available, KKR could have played the waiting game.
Looks like Cummins & Starc have decided to stay away from IPL 2023. Ashes coming up next English summer.
— KSR (@KShriniwasRao) November 13, 2022
KKR now has a solid base to improve the squad
Nevertheless, on the cricketing front, the Kiwi pacer is a fine addition to the setup. The team now, at least, has one reliable pacer for the death overs. If they can sign a promising young Indian left-arm pacer in Shivam Mavi’s place, there would be variety and depth in the bowling attack.
With the bat, too, KKR fans can hope their team to do well. While the core comprising Shreyas Iyer, Nitish Rana and Andre Russell is already strong, the likes of Venkatesh Iyer and Rinku Singh will further improve the unit. Alex Hales, if available, would be a massive boost to this department. The team could also use Rahmanullah Gurbaz or try to hire an Indian wicketkeeper like KS Bharat (if released by Delhi Capitals).
