(Image source: X.com)
[Saba Sports News] Mumbai Indians (MI) have suffered a blow to their bowling attack just before the start of IPL 2024. Australia fast bowler Jason Behrendorff has been ruled out of the tournament due to a fractured left fibula sustained during training. However, MI reacted quickly, announcing England’s Luke Wood as Behrendorff’s replacement on March 18.
Behrendorff was a key cog in MI’s pace attack last season, picking up 14 wickets in 12 matches at an impressive average. His absence left a hole to fill, but the signing of Wood offers an exciting option. The 28-year-old left-arm pacer has represented England in five T20 Internationals and two ODIs, claiming eight wickets in the shorter format.
Wood, acquired at his base price of Rs. 50 lakh, adds depth and variety to the MI bowling unit. With the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Gerald Coetzee, and Romario Shepherd already present, MI boast a potent pace attack. Wood’s arrival provides Hardik Pandya with another left-arm fast bowling option, a valuable asset in T20 cricket.
While Behrendorff’s experience will be missed, Wood’s potential is undeniable. He will be looking to impress in the upcoming season and potentially cement his place in the MI squad for the long term.
Notably, the five-time champions begin their IPL 2024 campaign against the Gujarat Titans on March 24 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.