Proteas players are much sought after IPL replacement

Bloemfontein (South Africa), Apr.7 (ANI): South African cricketers like batsman J P Duminy and left-arm quick Wayne Parnell have emerged as much sought after and potential replacements for players opting out of the second edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), given their recent performances against Australia.

A bid of Rand 9.5 million has already been tabled for Duminy, while Parnell is emerging as a red-hot buy after his excellent performance on the second one-day international against Australia.

Yusuf Abdulla is the most recent South African to be snapped up. The Kings XI Punjab approached him after West Indian seamer Jerome Taylor was injured in an auto accident.

Charl Langeveldt also joined the Kolkata Knight Riders on Sunday. He replaces injured Australian Mark Cameron. The Knight Riders had enquired about C J de Villiers, but opted for the more experienced Langeveldt.

Nineteen-year-old Parnell should top the shopping list after his 4/25 should any more players be injured or withdraw for other reasons.

According to Sports24, the other South Africans that will be involved in the IPL for the first time are Tyron Henderson (Rajasthan Royals), Morné Morkel (Rajasthan Royals), Dillon du Preez (Bangalore Royal Challengers), Ryan McLaren (Mumbai Indians), Roelof van der Merwe (Bangalore Royal Challengers) and Morné van Wyk (Kolkata Knight Riders).

The IPL tournament starts on 18 April. (ANI)