IPL 2020: 5 players who could return to their former franchises

3. Tim Southee (MI)

Tim Southee in action for RCB

Yet another Kiwi released from his 2019 franchise, the right-arm quick offers an attractive option to franchises looking for an experienced overseas fast bowler. His ex-franchise Mumbai Indians would be looking for just such a player to replenish their overseas fast bowling stocks, having released Beuran Hendricks, Adam Milne, Jason Behrendorff and Alzarri Joseph.

Southee is something of an IPL workhorse, having represented Chennai Super Kings in 2011, Rajasthan Royals in 2014 and 2015, Mumbai Indians in 2016 and 2017, and finally Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2018 and 2019. In his experience of 7 seasons in the IPL, he has won the title twice, first with CSK in 2011 and then with Mumbai in 2017.

In addition to his IPL experience, Southee comes into 2020 as captain (albeit on a temporary basis) of his national Twenty20 side. He led his side to a close 3-2 series loss against England at home (which was decided, unsurprisingly, by a Super Over).

Even as Mumbai Indians have released a large clutch of overseas fast bowlers, their former spearhead could be one they look out for on the 19th of December.