Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) has roped in New Zealand all-rounder Scott Kuggeleijn as a replacement for Kane Richardson for the remainder of IPL 2021, a report in ESPNCricinfo states. Kuggeleijn, who has been part of the IPL 2021 bubble as a reserve for Mumbai Indians moves to RCB as a replacement.
Incidentally, RCB cricketers Kane Richardson and Adam Zampa pulled out of IPL 2021 amid the prevailing covid crisis in the country. They became the fourth cricketer after Ravichandran Ashwin and Andrew Tye to pull out of the tournament in a space of 24 hours. Earlier, Rajasthan Royals batter Liam Livingstone also pulled out citing bubble fatigue.
Kane Richardson has played only one game against Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2021 where he picked a solitary wicket. Since then, he has warmed the benches with the management showing trust in the Indian quicks.
Official Announcment:
Adam Zampa & Kane Richardson are returning to Australia for personal reasons and will be unavailable for the remainder of #IPL2021. Royal Challengers Bangalore management respects their decision and offers them complete support.#PlayBold #WeAreChallengers pic.twitter.com/NfzIOW5Pwl
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) April 26, 2021
Scott Kuggeleijn joins RCB for IPL 2021
Scott Kuggeleijn will be a valuable addition as Royal Challengers Bangalore look for more all-rounders in their line-up. The Kiwi cricketer has earlier played in the Indian Premier League (IPL). In the year 2019, the New Zealand willow wielder was a part of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) side. He was a part of the CSK playing XI in 2 matches in the 12th edition of the IPL. Kuggeleijn is yet to score a run in IPL cricket and has taken two wickets with the ball in the IPL.
Kuggeleijn has also represented New Zealand in 16 T20I. The right-handed batter has scored 79 at an average of 19.75 and at a strike rate of 213.51. He will look to showcase his talent in any opportunity comes his way to stake a claim on the side.
Meanwhile, Royal Challengers Bangalore are yet to announce any replacements for leg-spinner Adam Zampa. They currently toil in third place with four wins from five matches – their only defeat coming against Chennai Super Kings.
