In one of those surprise tradings ahead of the Indian Premier League 2020, the defending champions Mumbai Indians left Mayank Markande to have Sherfane Rutherford in their side. The franchise stated that the move was made for the better cricket prospects for the players.
Mayank Markande from Punjab broke through into the Mumbai Indians attack in 2018 season with a stunning debut against Chennai Super Kings. Markande continued to impress throughout the season and ended up as Mumbai’s third-highest wicket-taker with 15 scalps.
However, an untimely injury coupled with Rahul Chahar’s eye-catching performances meant that Markande found himself mostly on the bench in the recent season of the IPL.
Difficult decision to leave Mayank Markande – Akash Ambani
Mumbai Indians owner Akash Ambani said that it was a difficult decision to release Markande. He had emerged as an upcoming talent in 2018 but did not have the same impact in 2019, with Rahul Chahar coming to the fore.
“We wish Mayank the very best for his future. Mayank is a brilliant talent. We were fortunate to have spotted and nurtured him early,” Ambani said in a statement. “It is a difficult decision for us. But we are releasing Mayank for better cricketing prospects and know that Mayank is on the cusp of emerging as yet another shining star of Indian cricket. He will always be a part of the Mumbai Indians family.”
Sherfane Rutherford has been impressive:
Sherfane Rutherford, 20, has played one T20I for West Indies. He made his IPL debut last year and played seven matches, scoring 73 runs and picking only one wicket. However, Mumbai Indians are excited to welcome him.
“I am excited to welcome the talented Sherfane into our family. Sherfane has impressed us with his all-round skills and match-winning attitude. His exploits across the world at such an early stage of his career has been impressive and we believe he will find his home at Mumbai Indians.”
Markande played only three matches for Mumbai in IPL 2019, after a solid debut season last year, where he finished as the team’s third-highest wicket-taker, with 15 dismissals in 14 matches. He now joins Amit Mishra, Sandeep Lamichhane and Rahul Tewatia to form a leg-spinning quartet at the Delhi Capitals.