IPL 2021: 3 teams that can sign Chris Morris in the auction
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Chris Morris
South-African all-rounder Chris Morris has gone for big money in the auctions of various editions of the Indian Premier League (IPL). His accurate bowling, ability to choke runs and take wickets coupled with his explosive batting capability down the order has made him a hot pick for any IPL franchise. He most recently represented the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for whom he missed the first half of the season due to an injury.
Once he returned, he strengthened the RCB death bowling and contributed with the bat on more than one occasion. He played 9 matches and picked up 11 wickets at an excellent economy of under 7. Despite his strong showing, RCB chose to release him ahead of the auction for the 2021 edition. This means that a lot of franchises will be eying the South African during the auction which is set to take place on February 18.
Here are the three teams who might go for Morris in the auction.
Mumbai Indians
Mumbai Indians (MI) raced to the IPL title in 2020 with ease and will be favorites to do it again in 2021. Ahead of the auction, they chose to retain their core group of players while also making sure they have plenty of funds going into the auction. They released a big chunk of their pacers including Nathan Coulter-Nile, James Pattinson and Mitchell McClenaghan.
This means that they don’t have a third pace bowling option apart from Trent Boult and Jasprit Bumrah. This is where Morris could be the perfect fit as he not only offers an assured third pace bowling option but can also play the role of a finisher down the order while batting.
Kings XI Punjab
Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) had a season of highs and lows in 2020 as they started off poorly but regained lost ground to go on a winning streak before getting their hopes of making the playoffs quashed in the last league match. A big concern for KXIP during the tournament was the form of Glenn Maxwell and ahead of the auction, they’ve released him meaning the spot of a finisher is vacant.
Chris Morris could be a smart buy for Punjab as he would not only make for a good finisher but can also greatly strengthen the side’s bowling which leaked runs at the death almost at will. The release of Sheldon Cottrell means KXIP would definitely look for a pacer and Morris fits the bill in that aspect as well.
Rajasthan Royals
Rajasthan Royals (RR) finished with the wooden spoon last season after failing to capitalize on a strong start to the season. RR found themselves to be too inconsistent and their death bowling, with the exception of Jofra Archer left a lot to be desired. Ahead of the next season, they’ve now released their captain Steve Smith appointed Sanju Samson as captain. They would thus be looking for a solid overseas buy.
Chris Morris could be one as he would be a perfect addition to the bowling attack to complement Archer and help the death bowling. Similarly, he can bat down the order and make for an explosive lower-order along with uncapped Indians like Riyan Parag and Rahul Tewatia.
Also Read: IPL 2021: 5 teams that can pick Steve Smith in the auction
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Nevin Clinton
(2399 Articles Published)