IPL Auction 2019: Did KKR miss a trick by not signing a backup for Chris Lynn?

The IPL auctions held on December 18th was an interesting one as uncapped Indian players and domestic pacers fell into the bracket of top-earners. A lot of relatively unknown overseas players also got picked in the auction. With most of the teams finishing the auction with a lot of money in their purse and many slots left, it would be interesting to watch how the decisions of the franchises would pan out in the actual event next year.

Kolkata Knight Riders have been a successful IPL team with 2 trophies in their cabinet. After the auctions for IPL 2018 ended, many were of the opinion that KKR had failed to form a good squad. However, the Dinesh Karthik led squad exceeded expectations as they reached the playoffs. Although they could not go all the way, the performance from their youngsters was highly appreciated.

Chris Lynn has been a constant overseas pick for Kolkata Knight Riders for some time now. He has done well for them on multiple occasions and hence was retained ahead of the upcoming season.

However, Chris Lynn could prove to be a liability for KKR next year. Being a part of the Australian Cricket team, Chris Lynn may not be available for the entire season owing to his World Cup commitments.

He is a fragile player and he has missed many matches in the past due to his injuries. With the World Cup ahead, Lynn would be extra cautious which could affect his performance with the bat and on the field. Moreover, an injury to him would put KKR's chances next year in danger.

Hence, an overseas option as a backup to Lynn would have been a priority coming into the auctions for the KKR team. However, the Dinesh Karthik led side have not focussed on that part of the requirement in the auctions.

They have strengthened the fast-bowling options in the squad and have purchased a couple of all-rounders too. They have also invested in Indian youngsters in the auctions.

Despite many overseas openers like Brendon McCullum, Hashim Amla, and Mohammed Shahzad available in the market, KKR failed to pick any of them. Players like Martin Guptill and Jonny Bairstow could have come cheap had KKR entered the bidding.

Considering the limited overseas batsman in their squad, KKR should hope that Lynn will stay fit and give his 100% for them to go far in the tournament.