IPL 2024: Richard Gleeson replaces Devon Conway in CSK's squad
What's the story
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star opener Devon Conway has been officially ruled out of the ongoing 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL).
The New Zealand batter sustained the thumb injury during the T20I series against Australia in February. He is yet to recover.
Meanwhile, CSK have roped in English pacer Richard Gleeson as Conway's replacement.
Here are further details.
Stats
Conway owns over 900 IPL runs
Conway was brilliant for CSK in the 2022 and 2023 IPL seasons. The 2022 competition marked his IPL debut.
The southpaw currently owns 924 runs from 23 IPL matches at 48.63 (50s: 9). He has a healthy strike rate of 141.28 in the tournament.
The NZ batter compiled 672 runs and was the third-highest run-getter in IPL 2023.
Details
Who is Richard Gleeson?
Gleeson, a right-arm pacer, is a late bloomer in international cricket.
At 34, he received his maiden England cap in a T20I against India in 2022.
He dismissed the dashing trio of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Rishabh Pant within his first eight deliveries to finish with 3/15 in four overs.
He currently owns nine wickets in six T20Is (ER: 8.90).
Stats
Here are his T20 stats
Gleeson, who joins CSK for his reserve price of Rs. 50 lakh, has returned with 101 wickets in 90 T20s so far at an economy of 8.18.
The tally includes a four-wicket haul besides a fifer.
Meanwhile, the 36-year-old boasts 143 and 28 wickets in First-Class and List A cricket, respectively.
Summary
CSK have made a strong start to the season
CSK have made a strong start to the season, winning four of their first six games.
Conway's NZ compatriot Rachin Ravindra has filled the former's shoes brilliantly.
Meanwhile, Gleeson is unlikely to get any chance in the CSK XI as overseas pacers Matheesha Pathirana and Mustafizur Rahman have been sensational for the team.
Twitter Post
CSK welcome Gleeson!
Welcoming with a glee!🤩🥳
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) April 18, 2024
Whistle Vanakkam, Richard! 🦁💛
🔗 - https://t.co/7XCuEZCm21 #WhistlePodu #Yellove pic.twitter.com/rJa1HilaQ6