McGrath replaces injured Vettori in Champions League squad

New Delhi, October 06: Australian bowling great Glenn McGrath can be seen in action again. After failing to play in any of the matches in the second edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in the summer, he is back in the Delhi Daredevils squad for the Champions League Twenty20.

McGrath replaces injured New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori who has stretched his hamstring before his team got on to the field in the Champions Trophy final against Australia Monday.

The 40-year-old New South Welshman, though included in the list of 20 probables, was not among the final 15-member squad.

But injury to Vettori forced Daredevils to call on McGrath.

“We have sought the permission from the Champions League organisers to for Mcgrath’s inclusion in place of Vettori. We are waiting for the approval,” GMR chief executive Amrit Mathur told IANS Tuesday.

The lanky pacer was reportedly upset at not being played even in one game in the IPL second edition and it was hinted that he may not renew his contract after the expiry of the present three-year term next year.

Daredevils coach David Saker, however, said the decision on McGrath for the playing XI is yet to be taken.

“Glenn is a great bowler and it is unfortunate that he did not get a chance to play in the IPL. It is tough to tell as of now whether he will be in the playing eleven or not. But he has not played enough matches,” said Saker, who incidentally is assistant coach of Australian Sheffield Shield side Victorian Bushrangers.

Delhi Daredevils play their first match against Bushrangers on Friday.

—Agencies