As per reports, veteran Indian pacer Dhawal Kulkarni is set to join Mumbai Indians (MI) squad for IPL 2022. The right-hand medium-fast pacer went unsold in IPL 2022 mega auction. Presently, Kulkarni is a part of IPL broadcaster Star Sports’ commentary panel.
After losing their first six games of the tournament, MI are witnessing their worst season in the history of IPL. With merely a fairylike probability of qualifying for playoffs, MI have reserved Kulkarni’s aids, in the course of their poor sprint in the tournament. The reason behind their disappointment seems to be a bowling attack they possess. The Indian pace gun Jasprit Bumrah lacks convincing assistance from his fellow pacers.
Rohit Sharma was eager to include Dhawal Kulkarni
Mumbai Indians have added Dhawal to the squad as a fast bowler, deliberating the extent of experience the 33-year-old has. The veteran has taken 86 wickets in 92 IPL games. Kulkarni was bought by MI back in 2008, for the first edition of IPL; he later represented Rajasthan Royals and Gujarat Lions, from 2014 to 2019. MI again bought the pacer for IPL 2020, in INR 75 lakh, through auction. He has represented MI in IPL 2020 & 2021 and is set to do the same, for the remaining IPL 2022.
Considering, MI’s bowling unit, Kulkarni may get more chances, in the tournament. According to the Times of India, the source was cited saying, “MI skipper Rohit Sharma was keen on adding Kulkarni to strengthen their pace attack. Being from Mumbai, he’s aware of how to bowl in Mumbai and Pune, where IPL-15 is being held.”
Kulkarni may not be the fastest in the team, but his experience over the years and skill to use the new ball may be beneficial for struggling MI. The team can expect a noteworthy involvement from the pacer, this time.
Written by Prachi Pisal
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