3 unsold bowlers who could have changed Mumbai Indians' fortunes

Starting the season as one of the favorites to clinch the title, Mumbai Indians have had a dismal campaign this season.

Their elimination can be attributed to ineffective bowling, sloppy fielding and otiose decision-making throughout the season. They haven't been able to fit in a proper overseas pacer in their line-up. Although they have tried several pacers in the form of Mitchell McClenaghan and Mustafizur Rahman, they have been a no-hoper.

However, had they acquired the players in the following list, they could have seen a huge difference in their position on the points table.

#3 Kyle Abbott

Kyle Abbott

South African bowler Kyle Abbott has been a part of Chennai Super Kings and Kings XI Punjab in the past.

He can swing the ball both ways and can be a great opening bowler. He can be lethal with his in-swingers at flat tracks, and also play some big hits occasionally.

Abbott went unsold in the auction after having been priced at Rs. 1.5 crores. Mumbai Indians have tried several opening bowlers in the form of Mitchell McClenaghan, Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya and Mustafizur Rahman but none of them were successful.

As Abbott got to play only 5 games in the IPL, he couldn't make much of an impact. But in the 21 T20's he has played for the Proteas, he has 26 scalps to his name.

Had Mumbai Indians brought in Abbott as an option, they would have had an able opening bowler.

#2 Tymal Mills

Tymal Mills

Tymal Mills made the headlines when he was acquired by Royal Challengers Bangalore for Rs. 12.8 crores last year. A year later, he found no bidders due to his lack of exposure in Indian conditions.

However, he was in splendid form with Karachi Kings in the Pakistan Super League. The fast bowler can generate raw pace which can stifle even the best batsman. As he has performed well in the pitches in Pakistan, he might have been able to adapt to Indian pitches.

Though he may not be a wicket-taker, he can steady the attack and slow down the momentum of the opposition. With the speed he generates in his bowling, he might definitely be a pacer who could have boosted Mumbai's bowling attack. Mills played five games last season and took 5 wickets at an economy rate of 8.58.

As Mumbai Indians have been over-dependent on their left arm pacers, Mitchell McClenaghan and Mustafizur Rahman, they could have roped in Mills, who would have perfectly replaced the out-of-form McClenaghan in the starting XI.

#1 Dale Steyn

Dale Steyn

Dale Steyn was one of the best bowlers in the world, a few years back but injuries have hampered his bowling.

Steyn is known for bowling regularly at speeds of 145-156 km/h. He can maintain his pace while also swinging the ball in and out. The South African has plenty of experience under his belt which could have turned the tables for Mumbai Indians this season.

Steyn has played as many as 90 games in the IPL and has taken 92 wickets at a brilliant economy of 6.72.

The South African went unsold in the auction due to injuries and a lack of match practice. However, this could have changed had Mumbai roped him in as an alternate. Steyn, with his priceless experience, could have been a helping hand for other bowlers in Mumbai's squad.

Bringing in Steyn would have been a perfect replacement for Cummins too. Mumbai Indians would regret not bringing in the veteran bowler.