Fast bowler set to make IPL return after being drafted in for injured John Hastings
Tait to replace Hastings at KKR
Former Australia fast bowler Shaun Tait will replace the injured John Hastings at Kolkata Knight Riders for the remainder of the Indian Premier League season.
The Knight Riders lost Hastings due to an ankle injury last month, with the Victorian subsequently ruled out of next month’s Qantas tour of the West Indies.
Kolkata chief executive Venky Mysore confirmed Tait’s signing on Wednesday, posting an image of the veteran quick on Twitter on Wednesday.
Pleasure to welcome @shaun_tait32 to @KKRiders family. Welcome Taity! pic.twitter.com/Us4NV3Blm1
— Venky Mysore (@VenkyMysore) May 11, 2016
Tait’s impressive form for the Hobart Hurricanes last KFC Big Bash League season saw him named in the team of the tournament, having collected 10 wickets at 24.70 and consistently pushing the speed gun above the 145kph barrier.
He was subsequently named in Australia’s T20 side which met India in a three-match series in January, but missed a spot in the 15-man squad for the ICC World T20 in India after figures of 0-45 and 0-46 in two appearances.
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Tait has previously played for the now-suspended Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, where he picked up 23 wickets at an average of 27.82 in 21 matches.
Didn't think Kolkata could replace @johnhastings194 with a better bloke..... And I was right @shaun_tait32 pic.twitter.com/x2z6Crvben
— Adam Zampa (@zamps63) May 11, 2016
He will join fellow Australians Chris Lynn and Brad Hogg at the Knight Riders, who are in a good position to qualify for the playoffs, sitting third on the table after 10 matches.
They next play the Rising Pune Supergiants at the Eden Gardens on Saturday.