IPL 2021: Simon Katich steps down as RCB coach, cites personal reasons

Simon Katich has stepped down as Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) coach ahead of the second half of the Indian Premier League (IPL), which gets underway from September 19 in the UAE.

Mike Hesson, the Director of Cricket Operations, will step in for the remainder of the season.

IPL 2021: Punjab Kings ropes in Nathan Ellis

New signings

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka international Wanidu Hasaranga has joined RCB for the second leg. He replaces Adam Zampa who is unavailable. RCB has also signed Dushmantha Chameera and Tim David. Finn Allen, Kane Richardson, Daniel Sams and Scott Kuggeleijn are also unavailable.

“Finn Allen and Scott Kuggeleijn have both been selected for New Zealand tours, and they won’t be part of RCB. Kane Richardson has made himself unavailable, as has Daniel Sams. So, therefore, the balance of our squad has changed dramatically. We have made some purchases during the replacement window, which opened up about four-five days ago, so a lot of preparation has gone into that,” Hesson said.

“We have replaced Adam Zampa with Wanindu Hasaranga. Certainly decided to have Hasaranga on board; he offers us some balance from a wrist spin point of view and also plenty of batting capabilities. So happy to have him on board.

IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals to leave for UAE on Saturday for second leg

 

“Chameera, also. Another from the Sri Lankan contingent. He’s bowling extremely well at the moment. We know him well, having coached against him. He’s got genuine pace, and also, his white-ball game has developed significantly over the last few years.

“With Finn Allen leaving, we have decided to strengthen our middle order possibilities in terms of options. Tim David has joined our squad. He’s currently part of the Southern Brave, performing for Surrey, and also the Hobart Hurricanes in recent times. A power player who could become a straight swap for either Maxwell or AB de Villiers if required, and also gives us other options. A really experienced player who has also performed well in the subcontinent in recent times.

“We also have one more spot to fill, which we will be able to do in the coming weeks. That announcement will be made in due course.”