Fitness issues involving Hardik, Bumrah prompted us to look for Boult, Kulkarni: Zaheer

Former India pacer and Mumbai Indians' Director of Cricket Zaheer Khan on Monday said concerns over fitness of Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya prompted team to trade in Trent Boult and Dhawal Kulkarni from Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals respectively.

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Bumrah & Pandya's injury concerns

While Pandya had a back surgery earlier this year, Bumrah too has been out of action due to issues in his back.

"This year is going to be different because we have had some challenges in terms of injuries. Hardik Pandya to start with, had a back surgery, Bumrah has been out of action with a few back issues and Jason Behrendorff has also had a back surgery," Zaheer said in a video mess. 
 

"So that was one of concerns and trades (Boult and Kulkarni) were a reflection of what was planning for upcoming season. We thought that we needed more strength around bowling department and hence trades with Capitals and Royals," he added.

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Players released and retained by Mumbai Indians

Mumbai Indians released 10 players last week including Behrendorff while retaining 18. "In terms of domestic talent as well, trend at MI has been of spotting domestic talent and going for it. But this is going to be end of cycle as well. dynamics of big IPL auction (ahead of 2021 edition) work differently. So, re is going to be some more thinking on what direction we should be going, it is pretty premature at this st," said Zaheer. auction ahead of 2020 edition will take place in Kolkata on December 19. 

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