Kolkata Knight Riders had a good start to IPL 2022 but as the tournament progressed, the cracks showed up. The next edition, the two-time champions will want to put up an imporved performance. On that note, in this article, we take a look at the list of five players KKR might target for IPL 2023.
There were multiple issues for KKR in IPL 2022. While the opening combination could never be frozen, the death bowling was also a concern. Brendon McCullum will not be at the helm and hence, there will be a new coach who will have to plan the resurrection.
1) Ben Stokes
Ben Stokes is one of the players KKR might target for IPL 2023. If the English Test captain puts his name for IPL 2023, KKR should target the all-rounder. KKR lacks a player at the top of the order who can play pace well. Here is where Stokes will be useful. He can either open the batting or bat at No.3 depending on if one of Shreyas Iyer or Nitish Rana goes up to open the batting. Stokes will also come in with a few useful overs of medium pace.
2) Paul Stirling
One of the attainable targets for KKR will be Irish opener Paul Stirling. The big-hitting cricketer is doing well in various T20 leagues along with international cricket. If Alex Hales does not participate in the next season, Stirling should be high on the target list for the Kolkata-based unit. With him in the XI, KKR can allow Venkatesh Iyer to play with less pressure at the top.
3) Sam Curran
Sam Curran is also one of the players KKR might target for IPL 2023. Tim Southee filled in as the new ball bowler along with Umesh Yadav for KKR in IPL 2022. The franchise can target Sam Curran because he offers more variety as a new ball partner for Umesh. With him, Curran brings a lot of batting talent, which can be used across the batting line-up. The player is young and will be a long-term investment for the franchise.
4) Phil Salt
KKR must hire a good overseas wicket-keeper and Phil Salt can be one of the targets. The Englishman is decent behind the wickets and can fill in if required. Most importantly, his batting skills are improving everyday and he will be a good addition to the top of the order.
5) Colin Munro
Colin Munro is one player who has improved tremendously in recent years. The Kiwi also does well in the middle-order now. If the main targets go out of price, KKR can target someone like Munro. While the player brings in good T20 batting flair, he also arrives with a lot of experience in the format. Therefore, he is also one of the players whom KKR must target.
