Faf du Plessis-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have roped in uncapped Afghanistan leg-spinner Izharulhaq Naveed as their net bowler for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. The news was confirmed by Naveed with a selfie he posted on his Instagram story donning the new RCB jersey.
The leg-spinner played for Afghanistan in the Under-19 World Cup 2022 where he picked up 10 wickets from seven games. He remained wicketless only against the winners India and runners-up Australia.
The 18-year-old has also played seven List A (50-over games) where he has picked up eight wickets at an average of 31.12. The leggie also has an impressive economy rate of 3.95 runs per over.
RCB already have a star leg-spinner in no.6 T20I bowler Wanindu Hasaranga who was roped in for a whopping Rs 10.75 crore in the mega auction. Hasaranga was brought back by RCB after he was released before the auction. The Bangalore-based franchise also let go of Yuzvendra Chahal and did not bid for him in the auction.
RCB will begin their campaign against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on March 27 at DY Patil Stadium. This will be the first time since 2013 Kohli will play for RCB as a player, not the captain. The 33-year-old has put his weight behind the former South Africa skipper ahead of IPL 2022.
“I messaged him as soon as he was picked for RCB. Sounded him off a little bit about what’s to come. It was obviously official after, but I knew that getting Faf at the auction for us, the plan was very clear that we need a leader in the changing room, who obviously commands a lot of respect. Doesn’t demand it, he commands it because he’s been there, done that. He’s a Test captain, so, that profile comes with a lot of accolades already,” Kohli said.
“We are absolutely excited for him to lead RCB this year, and I’m sure he’ll do a tremendous job. We get along really well. All of us with him, myself, Maxi (Glenn Maxwell), Harshal (Patel) and Dino (Dinesh Karthik) have met him already and I think all the other guys will really enjoy this environment and team,” he added.
