IPL 2019: 4 Afghanistan players who could come in as a replacement

#2 Mohammad Shahzad

Mohammad Shahzad was the highest run-getter in APL 2018.

Mohammad Shahzad may not look as fit as Virat Kohli, but he is an intelligent cricketer who brings an added value of being a wicket-keeper to the table. He was part of the auction list of IPL 2019 but was disregarded by various IPL franchises.

With red-hot performances that he showcased in the Afghanistan Premier League, he might have been left wondering of what more could he have done to grab the attention of various IPL teams.

He was the highest run-getter in the recently concluded Afghanistan Premier League (APL), with 344 runs from 9 matches at an average of 43. His strike rate was 174.61 and he was the joint highest six hitter alongside Chris Gayle with 27 sixes.

These statistics clearly showcase why one should have him as a part of their squad rather than having him as their opponent. The century scored by him against India in the Asia Cup match is also an indication that he can score runs against quality bowlers.

With many teams having an opening batsman with wicket-keeping abilities, if the need arises, he might be called up as a replacement.