A file photograph of Tom Curran
England fast bowler Tom Curran is set to join Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad as the T20 franchise has signed him as a replacement for Australia's Mitchell Starc, who ruled out of the IPL 2018 due to injury. It will be the first IPL stint for the 23-year-old bowing all-rounder, who is expected to join the KKR camp before their first match against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on April 8.
"I’m thrilled and excited to be joining Kolkata Knight Riders for the IPL. I know from chatting to other players I can learn a lot from being in that environment, skills that I hope will benefit Surrey and my chances of representing England again this year and if selected, for next year’s World Cup," Curran said in a statement released by Surrey Cricket.
“I want to thank Alec Stewart and everyone at Surrey County Cricket Club for supporting my ambitions and allowing me this great opportunity. I can’t wait to represent Surrey again when I return, hopefully with a few more tricks up my sleeve," he added.
Australian left-arm seamer Starc, who was bought by KKR for Rs 9.4 crore, has been ruled out after suffering a stress fracture. Earlier, KKR CEO Venky Mysore had said they are not worried too much because of Starc's injury pullout and said Mitchell Johnson would lead the attack.
"We have a very good option in Mitchell Johnson. He has played more IPLs and won two championships when he has played for teams and he is an outstanding player. He bowled well in the Big Bash, he is still fit, and bowling 145kph plus. He is an experienced campaigner, I don't think we won't miss him (Starc) initially but we need backup," he said about the Perth Scorchers pacer who bagged seven wickets from 10 matches at an average of 36.28. (Read full story)
