Punjab Kings (PBKS) have suffered a significant setback as Jonny Bairstow has been ruled out of the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL) due to the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) decision not to grant him a No Objection Certificate. Bairstow had undergone surgery in October 2022 for a broken leg and dislocated ankle. The ECB wants him to be fully fit and available for the upcoming Ashes and the 2023 ODI World Cup.
As a result, PBKS will need to find a suitable replacement for the Englishman. Here are three players that the Mohali-based franchise should consider as Bairstow’s replacement.
Dawid Malan
PBKS could consider Dawid Malan, a 35-year-old Englishman who had played for the franchise before but got few chances. As a former No.1 T20I batsman, Malan’s talent is undeniable. He has played nearly 300 T20 matches and has a wealth of experience that could benefit Punjab Kings. Despite only playing one IPL game, Malan has an impressive record for England in T20Is, with an average of almost 38 and a strike rate of 134.07.
Rassie van der Dussen
Rassie van der Dussen, an experienced player from South Africa, could be a valuable addition to the Punjab Kings’ team. Although he didn’t perform well during his previous stint with the Rajasthan Royals (RR), he has impressive T20I stats with an average of 36 and a strike rate of 128.73. Additionally, he has played in 166 T20 matches, which speaks to his extensive experience in the format.
Travis Head
Travis Head’s recent performances have boosted his profile significantly. His impressive form during the Australian summer, combined with solid scores in Tests and ODIs against India, has caught the attention of many. The left-handed batsman, aged 29, has a decent track record in his ten previous IPL appearances.
Head has demonstrated his ability to succeed in Indian conditions, which makes him a promising prospect for the Punjab Kings. He also has a wealth of experience, having played in over 100 T20 matches. Given his skill set, Head could be a valuable asset for PBKS at the top of their batting lineup.