MI vs KKR: Andre Russell – Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) could play without talismanic all-rounder Andre Russell in their next game against Mumbai Indians after he limped off the field bowling just 13 deliveries. While Russell returned to bat against SRH, he seemed in visible discomfort and got out for just three runs. The KKR star is dealing with fitness issues in the last few seasons of IPL and is not bowling his quota of overs. Russell bowled only two overs against SRH yesterday’s game before he felt pain in his legs. The KKR star is a doubtful starter against MI owing to his latest injury. 

Russell struggles to bowl four overs

For the uninitiated, Russell did not bowl in the three games that KKR played in the IPL 2023 season. Only against SRH, KKR skipper Nitish Rana called him to bowl. While the all-rounder struck in his first ball ending up taking two wickets, Russell could ball only one ball in the penultimate over, before Shardul Thakur completed the renaming over.

MI vs KKR: Will Russell play against MI? if not who will replace the all-rounder in the playing XI?

With IPL being a bit tournament, KKR management might not risk playing Russell against MI. The all-rounder is a vital part of the team, managing to singlehandedly turn the game with bat and ball. KKR would be hoping to have a fit Russell by the business end of the IPL 2023 season. While the Caribbean star’s likely absence against MI would be a body blow, KKR have able replacement options in Jason Roy, Tim Southee, and Litton Das.

With Rahmanullah Gurbaz failing to score in two games, Roy could replace Gurbaz at the top, and Litton Das could come in place for Russell. KKR have Southee as an option if they want to beef up the bowling line-up. KKR will take on MI o Sunday (April 16).