IPL 2022: MI sign Dhawal Kulkarni for remainder of season
Five-time champions Mumbai Indians have signed senior fast bowler Dhawal Kulkarni for the remainder of the 2022 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. As per PTI, the Indian seamer could be considered for the rest of the games, provided he performs well in the training sessions. Kulkarni was a part of the commentary team of the official broadcaster, Star Sports, for the season.
Why does this story matter?
It was earlier reported that MI are planning to rope in Kulkarni for the remaining games this season. The pace attack of MI, who have lost all eight games so far, has been under the scanner lately. Kulkarni, who went unsold in the IPL 2022 auction, could be backed to bolster their attack. It will be interesting to see if he plays this season.
A look at Kulkarni's IPL career
Kulkarni is one of the few active players who played in the inaugural IPL season (2008). He started his journey in the cash-rich league with MI. The 33-year-old has also represented Rajasthan Royals and Gujarat Lions in the past. As of now, the right-arm pacer has taken 86 wickets from 92 matches at 28.77. Kulkarni last played in 2020 (for MI).
Kulkarni has featured in 150 T20 games
In a T20 career spanning over a decade, Kulkarni has scalped 147 wickets from 150 games. He averages 27.45 and has an economy of 7.98. Kulkarni has the best match haul of 4/14 in the format. The tally also includes two four-wicket hauls.
MI's bowling department has struggled
MI pacers have been ineffective in the ongoing season. Their premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has taken just five wickets from eight matches and conceded over 200 runs. Left-arm pacer Jaydev Unadkat, who failed to defend 17 runs off the final over against Chennai Super Kings, has taken six wickets so far. Tymal Mills and Daniel Sams have also struggled.
MI still eye their first win this season
MI are still in pursuit of their first win in IPL 2022. They had become the only side to lose their first eight matches in an IPL season. Delhi Capitals and Royal Challengers Bangalore recorded six defeats each in 2013 and 2019, respectively (first six in a season). Meanwhile, MI are out of the playoffs race (IPL 2022).
