Heinrich Klaasen likely to replace Steve Smith at Rajasthan Royals
What's the story
Steven Smith's 12-month ban have come as a huge blow for IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals.
But, the Royals are acting fast and they have set their sights on hard-hitting South African Heinrich Klaasen as Smith's replacement.
Rajasthan have sent out a request to the BCCI and are hopeful that the wicketkeeper-batsman will become a part of their squad.
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Klaasen's heroics against India haven't gone unnoticed
"Klaasen is an amazing player of spin. He has a vast array of shots, which tempted us to go for him. He plays the reverse sweep very well, something that will be quite useful in the IPL." Bharucha, Head of Cricket of Rajasthan Royals said.
Big hitting batsman
Klaasen sent Chahal and Kuldeep on a leather hunt
Klaasen rose to prominence during South Africa vs India series, where he came in as a replacement for injured Quinton de Kock.
Despite spin duo Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav wrecking havoc in the series, Klaasen was the only batsman who sent them on a leather hunt.
Apart from Klaasen, Rajasthan also have two quality wicketkeepers Sanju Samson and Jos Buttler in their ranks.
Zeroing in
Klaasen picked over Root and Amla
England Test captain Joe Root and South African batting great Hashim Amla were the other options in consideration but the Royals decided to zero in on Heinrich Klaasen, as a replacement for Smith.
The 27-year-old will cost the Royals only Rs. 50 lakh, which is his base price.
At this cost, this definitely looks like a great deal.
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The Royals building a team with a 3 year plan
"Smith will be back with us next year and we did not want to end up with two similar players. Our idea was to build the team keeping three years in mind. Even after Smith is back, Klaasen will be very useful" Bharucha concluded.