IPL 2019: 3 players who can replace the injured Anrich Nortje in the KKR squad

#3 James Neesham

James Neesham

Even with a low base price of INR 75 lakh, James Neesham didn’t find any bids during the auction. However, an injury to Nortje might open the door for him.

Though not a like-for-like replacement, Neesham is a batting all-rounder and can add versatility to the KKR squad. The Kiwi all-rounder recently made a comeback after an injury hiatus and made an immediate impact.

In the first match on his return, Neesham smashed 47 runs off just 13 against Sri Lanka, clobbering 6 sixes during the course of the innings. He followed this up with a 37-ball 64. In that series, Neesham also claimed wickets at crucial intervals.

Because of the bounce he gains due to the high release, coupled with the variety of slow ball variations up his sleeve, Neesham is not easy to get away.

Neesham has previously represented Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) and Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL. He has also featured in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and T20 Blast.

With a good amount of experience on his side - including prior experience of Indian conditions - Neesham can add a great deal of utility to the KKR squad.