India all-rounder Irfan Pathan had a good run in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy where he picked up five wickets in four games. Is discarded Irfan Pathan the solution to Gujarat”s woes?

Dwayne Bravo”s absence could be blessing in disguise for Gujarat if they pick Irfan Pathan.

Everyone”s favorite “Champion” Dwayne Bravo has been ruled out of IPL due to hamstring injury.

Bravo sustained this injury on 29th December 2016 playing for Melbourne Renegades against Perth Scorchers at Docklands Stadium, Melbourne. He had to undergo a surgery and missed the subsequent season of Big Bash.

As down and out Gujarat Lions seek to revive their IPL campaign, there is one man who could turn their fortunes around and that is Irfan Pathan.

It was a big surprise that a player like Irfan Pathan went unsold at the auction and some cricketers with lesser credentials fetched crores. But Bravo”s injury may just be Irfan Pathan”s new coming in IPL.

Here are the reasons why Irfan Pathan is best replacement for Dwayne Bravo.

Experience : Irfan has been a seasoned campaigner in this format of the game. He has been around for many years, played more than 100 matches in IPL. As they say there is no substitute for experience, Irfan might bring just the kind of experience required to lead their bowling attack.

All-round abilities : Irfan is a big player, the form all rounder. He can swing new ball as well as his willow when quick runs are required. His presence at No.7 will give Gujarat Lions the balance that they need in order to play 4 foreign batsmen.

Hometown Hero : Gujarat is the state where he has played most of his cricket. He comes from that part of the world as well. Fans will be happy to see their hometown hero donning the orange and winning matches for their side.

Variety to bowling attack : In a right-handed dominated bowling attack consisting of Andrew Tye, Kulkarni, Praveen Kumar, Basil Thampi, Munaf Patel, a left armer like Irfan will provide variety to their bowling attack. History shows the teams who have won IPL titles always had a good left arm seamer in their ranks.

Sohail Tanvir, RP Singh, Doug Bollinger, Johnson, McCleanghan, Mustafizur have all played key roles in their team”s victorious campaigns in previous editions of IPL.

– by Atharva Apte