The Mumbai Indians have signed Riley Meredith to replace Jhye Richardson for IPL 2023. Meredith has had a successful run in T20 cricket, having taken 100 wickets in 77 matches with an average of 23.41 and an economy rate of 8.33. His strike rate of 16.8 is also impressive. Not only that, but he recently made his international debut, playing five T20Is and one ODI till now.
Let’s look at 3 reasons why Meredith can be the right move for the MI:
3) Had a great BBL season
Riley Meredith has been a significant presence in the Big Bash League, having had a great year in 2022/23 with the Hobart Hurricanes. He picked up 21 wickets in 14 matches at an impressive average of 21.2, an economy rate of 8.11 and a striking rate of 15.7. The conditions in India will be different to those in Australia, though the fast bowler may get some assistance from the pitch early on in Wankhede Stadium. His presence should also strengthen the Mumbai Indians bowling attack, which has been struggling without Jasprit Bumrah’s services. Jofra Archer has also made a return to competition after two years. Their joint potential at speeds over 150mph could be devastating.
2) Ability to bowl in all phases
Meredith’s excellent bowling ability in all phases of T20 cricket will give Rohit Sharma the flexibility to utilize Jofra Archer effectively and relieve the rest of the bowling unit, who may not have much experience. Meredith’s statistics in T20 games regarding each phase are as follows:
- Powerplay (1-6 overs): 29 wickets in 99 overs | 27 average | economy rate – 7.91
- Middle (7-16 overs): 35 wickets in 116.1 overs | 25.7 average | economy rate – 7.74
- Death (17-20 overs): 28 wickets in 46.5 overs | 16.8 average | economy rate – 10.02
1) Previous experience with IPL
Riley Meredith is no stranger to the Indian Premier League, having played for the Punjab Kings (2021) and Mumbai Indians (2022). Over his 13 matches, he has taken 12 wickets at an average of 22.50 with an economy rate of 9. His impressive pace makes that economy rate a little higher compared to other bowlers, but Mumbai Indians will be more than pleased if he continues to take wickets consistently. With his T20 experience, Meredith will be a strong addition to the MI team.
