Ramandeep Singh dismisses Mitchell Starc injury concern, says he is available for selection against PBKS

Mitchell Starc has no injury problems and is “available” for selection, said Kolkata Knight Riders all-rounder Ramandeep Singh, even as the pace star indulged in only light training sessions ahead of the IPL clash against Punjab Kings. The Australian cricketer, who attracted a record bid, has not had the kind of return to the league after eight years that he had hoped for as he has lost too many runs this season and taken just six wickets. The left-arm quick also suffered a finger injury on his bowling hand during the match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Starc did not score in the two training sessions ahead of the match against PBKS, while Sri Lankan pacer Dushmantha Chameera was seen struggling, fueling speculation that the Australian may be “rested”.

But Ramandeep said Starc was available for selection.

“Yes, he is available. It’s about managing your workload,” said Ramandeep. “He is a legend. Cricket is a game of timing. We cannot judge him by just a few matches,” he said.

With Starc going through a bad patch, the bowling unit is under pressure but Ramandeep said, “There was no discussion about bowling.” “We just discuss execution and planning and how to improve further. We don’t judge anyone in one or two games.” With five wins from seven matches, KKR are second in the 10-team table and are well placed to finish in the top two.

“We will take one game at a time. We are just focusing on the Punjab game without thinking about finishing in the top two at the moment,” Ramandeep said.

He further gave credit to team mentor Gautam Gambhir for his consistent performance this season.

“Everyone has a lot of clarity. It’s only because of him that the team is performing so well. He’s supporting everyone,” he said.

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