Mumbai Indians on Tuesday acquired the services of South African fast bowler Gerald Coetzee, fending off strong interest from Chennai Super Kings and Lucknow Super Giants. Coetzee, in a message for Mumbai Indians after he was sold, said that he ‘can’t wait to bowl’ with MI teammate Jasprit Bumrah.
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Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opened the bidding for South Africa speedster Coetzee at the base price of Rs 2 crore. However, Mumbai Indians made an aggressive bid for Coetzee, bidding upto Rs 3.40 crores before CSK decided to bow out. Lucknow Super Giants entered the bidding process and placed their bid till Rs 4.80 crore. Finally, MI confirmed the signing of Gerald Coetzee with a Rs 5 crore bid.
In a video uploaded on Mumbai Indians’ X (previously Twitter) handle, Coetzee shared his excitement on being picked by the most successful IPL side.
“I cannot wait to join the Mumbai Indians team for the next IPL season. Running out at the Wankhede in thr blue and gold, and bowling with Bumrah, I cannot wait. It’s going to be fantastic. I’m so excited to see all of you there,” said Coetzee.
Coetzee made a name for himself in the recently concluded ODI World Cup. He finished the tournament with 20 wickets, taking his place as the fifth highest wicket-taker in the tournament.
The 23-year-old fast bowler already represents Chennai Super Kings in SA20 and Major League Cricket, and his addition to this Mumbai side will be huge boost for MI’s pace bowling department.
