Phil Salt, along with the other English players have left the IPL. Hence, they will not be a part of the IPL 2024 playoffs. For KKR, it is a big blow because Salt was one of their best batters. He was also a stable presence behind the stumps. On that note, here, we take a look at the list of two new opening combinations KKR might try in the absence of Phil Salt for the IPL 2024 playoffs.
1) Sunil Narine and Rahmanullah Gurbaz
If KKR does not want to tinker too much with the combination at the top of the order, they can do a straight swap through Gurbaz. This way, KKR will also not have to worry about the wicket-keeper slot because Gurbaz will do a good job.
However, last season, Gurbaz was not consistent. Jason Roy did a better job in IPL 2023. KKR will be wary of this. Moreover, Gurbaz has not played a single game till now. Therefore, he could be rusty and this could also have an impact on Narine’s performance.
2) Sunil Narine and Venkatesh Iyer
The duo of Sunil Narine and Venkatesh Iyer is one of the new opening combinations KKR might try in the absence of Phil Salt for the IPL 2024 playoffs. Venkatesh Iyer is also another option whom KKR can consider at the top of the order.
This season, Iyer has shown good intent and has also come up with some solid knocks. Yes, it would be a left-left combination but this has not affected KKR or other teams such as SRH in IPL 2024. Hence, KKR could go with it. If this combination happens, KKR will have to bring either Gurbaz or KS Bharat in the middle order. Bharat would be a better fit in this regard. He has done well in this role a few years ago with RCB. KKR can then play an extra foreign bowler.
