IPL 2019: Five released players KKR should target at the auction

#3. Manoj Tiwary

Time to go back to the future with Manoj Tiwary?

The veteran batsman has been released by Kings XI Punjab after a dismal showing in the IPL 2018 where Manoj Tiwary scored only 47 runs in the five matches. However, it will be a mistake to write off the senior batsman determined to get himself back on the track for national selection.

One issue that plagued KKR in the 2018 season was the lack of runs from the bat of Robin Uthappa. It added extra pressure on the young middle order and the Knight Riders had no backup option for Uthappa. They can get Manoj Tiwary in the side and ensure they have someone who can hold up an end amidst collapse.

Tiwary also provides the home advantage as he is the captain of the Bengal Ranji team whose home ground is Eden Gardens. His input can be of immense help for Dinesh Karthik. Tiwary has a long history with KKR, and he had also scored the winning runs in the franchise’s first-ever IPL win.