Mumbai: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) is in the second position so far in the ninth edition of IPL but their gusto to reach the stars sets them apart; the Gautam Gambhir-led squad included Australia all-rounder Chris Lynn in the team replacing South Africa pacer Morne Morkel for the match against Mumbai Indians here at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday.
Lynn – whose last T20I international came against India earlier this year – could be seen at the nets on the eve of the match. Hence, his inclusion didn’t surprise anyone. But at a time when a certain pack is winning matches for the team, is it wise to tinker with the combination? Will Lynn fit the bill?
Well, he just may; why? In 2014, he single-handedly helped KKR beat Royal Challengers Bangalore joining the team out of nowhere; remember the catch he took to dismiss AB de Villiers on the boundary rope? He stretched, arched to position himself smartly and remained within the line holding the ball – all in few seconds. He even contributed with the bat, 45 off 31 balls, which helped the Knights reach 150 for the loss of seven wickets.
Lynn had won the Man of the Match award and eventually, KKR won the trophy.
In the Australian domestic circuit, Lynn had become the first player since Martin Love (in 2009) to score a double-century for Queensland at the Gabba. He remained unbeaten on 250.
Will he fire tonight? It remains to be seen.
