The Kolkata Knight Riders bowling coach Omkar Salvi has revealed that the new-signing of Sandeep Warrier was highly recommended by their scouts. Warrier was on the radar of the Kolkata Knight Riders think tank and they were able to rope in the services of the Kerala fast bowler. The 27-year old pacer has done a good job at the domestic circuit and he would like to deliver the goods for the Kolkata franchise.
Sandeep Warrier was signed as the replacement for the Under-19 sensation Kamlesh Nagarkoti who has been ruled out of the entire season due to the foot injury.
Warrier has shown the right promise.
Furthermore, the two-times IPL champions have signed the Karnataka spinner KC Cariappa as a replacement for Shivam Mavi who is ruled out due to an injury. Mavi had played nine matches in the previous season and he had scalped five wickets.
“Warrier has done really well in the domestic season. Our talent scouters watched him and recommended his name strongly,” Salvi told reporters on the sidelines of KKR’s practice session at the Eden Gardens.
“KKR has been blessed with a lot of unique and versatile bowlers. We are excited to work with them,” he said.
Sandeep Warrier is yet to make his debut.
Meanwhile, Sandeep Warrier was also part of Royal Challengers Bangalore team. However, he is yet to make his debut in the flamboyant T20 league. On the other hand, KC Cariappa has played 10 IPL matches for the Kings XI Punjab. He has thus far taken eight wickets.
Kolkata Knight Riders have a settled squad, however, a quality Indian fast bowler is a missing piece in their jigsaw. The Kolkata Knight Riders had made it to the playoff stages in the previous season. They had finished at the third position in the previous season.
It's Official: We have a warrior among the #Knights! ?
Welcome Sandeep Warrier, who will join our squad for #VivoIPL 2019#KKRHaiTaiyaar #KorboLorboJeetbo pic.twitter.com/nW78enkngv
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) March 17, 2019
Dinesh Karthik-led side will begin their IPL campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad on 24th March at their home ground Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Meanwhile, the opener of the 12th season will take place between reigning champions Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challenger Bangalore on 23rd March at Chepauk Stadium.