Top 5 Potential Replacements for Injured Gerald Coetzee in GT Squad for IPL 2025

South African fast bowler Gerald Coetzee has suffered another injury setback, ruling him out of the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 and the IPL 2025 for Gujarat Titans. Coetzee was sidelined due to groin tightness during a bowling session at the Centre of Excellence in Pretoria. Medical evaluations deemed it too risky for him to continue, leading to his withdrawal from the tournaments.

Coetzee had already been struggling with fitness issues in the SA20 league, where a left hamstring injury limited him to just one game. His potential absence from IPL 2025 is a setback for Gujarat Titans (GT), who now face the challenge of finding a suitable replacement for their bowling attack alongside Ishant Sharma, Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj,  Prasidh Krishna, and Arshad Khan. Coetzee was expected to be a key component of Gujarat’s pace unit. The franchise may need to explore alternatives to maintain its strength in the tournament.

Here’s a look at the top five potential replacements for injured Gerald Coetzee in GT squad for IPL 2025-

1. Naveen-ul-Haq

Afghanistan’s Naveen-ul-Haq has made a name for himself as a clever T20 specialist with the ability to swing the ball early and deceive batters with his variations. He has already experienced IPL success, picking up 25 wickets in 18 matches for Lucknow Super Giants at an economy rate of 9.16.

Given his experience in global leagues and his effectiveness at various stages of an innings, GT could consider him as a replacement. His ability to mix pace, execute slower balls, and bowl under pressure makes him a valuable asset.

2. Blessing Muzarabani

Zimbabwean pacer Blessing Muzarabani has been in outstanding form, particularly in the ILT20 league, where he has taken 16 wickets in 10 matches for Gulf Giants, maintaining an impressive economy rate of 6.64.

Muzarabani’s towering height and ability to extract extra bounce make him a strong candidate to replace Coetzee. Though he hasn’t played in the IPL yet, he was part of Lucknow Super Giants as a net bowler in 2022, which means he’s familiar with the league’s demands.

3. Kyle Jamieson

New Zealand’s Kyle Jamieson is another tall, hit-the-deck fast bowler who could slot into Coetzee’s role. Injuries have hampered his career, but he is currently in fine form, having taken 14 wickets in 12 matches in the Super Smash tournament at an economy of 5.95.

Jamieson has previous IPL experience with RCB, which gives him an advantage. If GT wants an international pacer with IPL exposure, Jamieson might be the ideal pick.

4. Jason Behrendorff

A seasoned campaigner, Jason Behrendorff brings plenty of T20 experience and has been a reliable performer in the format. His ability to swing the ball upfront in the powerplay and deliver well-executed deathovers makes him a strong replacement option.

Having played 168 T20 matches and taken 203 wickets at an economy of 7.60, Behrendorff has previously represented Mumbai Indians in the IPL. His experience and knowledge of Indian conditions could make him a brilliant signing for the Gujarat Titans.

5. Shardul Thakur

While not a direct pace-for-pace replacement, Shardul Thakur brings all-round ability, which could balance the GT squad. He recently made headlines by taking a hat-trick in the Ranji Trophy and has been a valuable contributor with both bat and ball.

In the ongoing domestic season, Thakur has claimed 20 wickets and scored 297 runs, including a century and two fifties. His knack for delivering in high-pressure moments and extensive IPL experience make him a compelling choice.

Who Should Gujarat Titans Pick as Coetzee’s Replacement?

Each of these pacers offers a unique skill set-

1. Muzarabani and Jamieson fit the tall, hit-the-deck bowler profile like Coetzee.
2. Behrendorff and Naveen-ul-Haq bring experience and versatility.
3. Shardul Thakur, with his all-round skills, could add depth to the bowling and lower-order batting.

With the IPL 2025 schedule out now, Gujarat Titans must act quickly to finalize a replacement if Coetzee is ruled out. They have several strong options to consider, ensuring their pace attack remains formidable.

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