During the opening game of IPL 2023 between Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings Kane Williamson suffered a terrible knee injury. He was then replaced by the Impact substitute Sai Sudharshan for the course of the game. A lot of fans are wanting the injured Williamson to get replaced with Steve Smith. Here’s why Steve Smith can’t replace injured Kane Williamson.
Gujarat Titans won the inaugural game of the IPL 2023 by 5 wickets. However, they might lose one of their key batters Kane Williamson’s services as he hurt his knee while fielding on the boundary line.
Kane Williamson likely to rule out from IPL 2023 after horrible knee injury
During the first innings when Ruturaj Gaikwad was going bonkers on the Gujarat bowling lineup, Williamson hurt his knee while saving a boundary.
Williamson was situated at the deep square leg when Gaikwad clubbed a length ball on the leg side. He was airborne for a few seconds and landed abruptly on his legs. His knee twitched slightly during the time of landing and the player was subbed off straight away.
Sai Sudarshan became the first-ever impact player of the IPL 2023 as he replaced Kane Williamson.
Here’s why Steve Smith can’t replace injured Kane Williamson for the remainder of IPL 2023
There is still no confirmation about Williamson’s recovery from the injury. However, the player is not expected to play the remainder of the season after the bizarre injury. GT is already looking for a replacement for Williamson.
A lot of fans are wanting the former Australian captain to replace the Kiwi skipper.
Nevertheless, Smith didn’t register himself for IPL 2023 Auction which means he cannot replace anyone in the current season.
The Aussie veteran is part of the star sports commentary panel for the IPL 2023.
3 players who can replace Kane Williamson for the remainder of the season
- Rassie Van Der Dussen – The south African middle-order batter has impressed everyone ever since his debut for his national team. Rassie played in the IPL last season but the latter didn’t get as many opportunities to play.
- Dawid Malan – The English top-order batsman has been consistently been in the list of top 10 ICC T20 batsman ranking. He has played for Punjab Kings in the past but the player failed to perform in IPL as he would like.
- Daryll Mitchell – Kane Williamson’s national teammate Daryll Mitchell can also be a feasible replacement for him. Mitchell can also bowl medium-pace bowling when needed.