IPL 2019 | Kolkata Knight Riders replace injured Anrich Nortje with Matthew Kelly

Given that the South African fast bowlers’ injury news came up one month back, it was quite surprising to see KKR opting for his replacement so late. However, Kelly could be wise replacement although the Australian lacks the brute pace that Nortje would have brought to the side. Representing Australia Under-19s, WA Under-23, and WA XI, Kelly has played 12 T20 games so far taking 19 wickets at a strike rate of 14.5. 

Norje was bought by the KKR side at his base price of Rs 20 lakhs but had to soon withdraw himself with an injury following the injuries of Indian pair - Shivam Mavi and Kamlesh Nagarkoti. The side had to quickly call upon the services of Sandeep Warrier and KC Cariappa as replacements for the Indian bowlers.

With Lockie Ferguson, Prasidh Krishna, and Andre Russell holding the fast bowling fort well, and Harry Gurney chipping in significant contributions, Kelly’s services are likely to rarely needed by the two-time champions. KKR currently sit second of the IPL points table with eight points from six matches.