The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have revealed the signing of Sri Lankan speedster Dushmantha Chameera as a replacement for injured English pacer Gus Atkinson for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL 2024) season.
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Atkinson, who was bought for INR 1 crore at the IPL auction in December 2023, has withdrawn from the tournament due to workload management concerns outlined by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).
He recently featured in three World Cup matches in India, followed by a white-ball tour of the Caribbean, and is currently part of England’s ongoing Test series in India. Chameera, who went unsold at the auction, joins KKR at his base price of INR 50 lakhs.
This isn’t his first IPL rodeo, having previously played for Rajasthan Royals, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Lucknow Super Giants. In his most recent outing, he picked up two wickets for 20 runs in the ILT20 match for Dubai Capitals against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders.
KKR’s acquisition of Chameera adds firepower to their bowling attack, especially considering their pace contingent already boasts Mitchell Starc. The Sri Lankan brings experience and a proven track record in T20 cricket, having featured in 118 T20 matches and claiming 118 wickets.
While the official IPL 2024 start date is yet to be confirmed, it’s expected to kick off around March 22nd, pending the finalization of India’s general election polling dates. Chameera’s inclusion, however, gives KKR a strong bowling option as they gear up for another shot at the coveted IPL trophy.
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