KKR Probable Playing XI for IPL 2020
The decision to send Sunil Narine to open has proved to be a game-changer with the bat for KKR. He has a license to go for everything which makes him a dangerous proposition. The left-hander has an impressive strike rate of 179.21 while opening in the IPL. Narine batting at the top helps in adding depth to the batting lineup since he guarantees at least three overs with the ball despite losing some of his zip after a remodeled action.
Having caught everyone’s attention with his free-flowing approach while opening the batting for Rising Pune Supergiants in 2017, Rahul Tripathi did not get many opportunities at the top for Rajasthan Royals in 2018 and 2019. KKR will look to get the best out of Tripathi by sending him at the top.
One of Indian cricket’s brightest prospects at present, Shubman Gill played at number three for India at the under-19 World Cup. But the Punjab native has played various roles for KKR in the last 2 years. This year he is expected to take up the No 3 slot.
Having shown glimpses of his potential, Nitish Rana needs to be more consistent with the bat this season. In the two seasons Rana has played for KKR, he has faltered in the second half of the season after doing exceedingly well in the first half. His ability to anchor and the innings and also hit the big shots means he will play at no 4.
England’s World Cup-winning captain has not set the stage on fire in the IPL yet. However, his experience will be crucial for KKR’s middle order. Having led England to their maiden World Cup victory, Morgan brings with him the much-needed leadership experience too, which will undoubtedly be of great help for Dinesh Karthik on and off the field. However, if Morgan fails and KKR’s bowling struggles, the KKR think tank might opt for the pace and aggression of Lockie Ferguson.
Dinesh Karthik has been prolific with the finishing role for quite a long time now. The skipper perfectly fits into the number six or seven position, having the experience as well the composure needed for the role. The Tamil Nadu keeper is expected to play at no 6 position.
The Caribbean all-rounder had a dream season with the bat in 2019, scoring 510 runs at an incredible average of 56.66 and an unbelievable strike rate of 204.81 (the highest of the season). The burly all-rounder won several matches on his own from impossible situations. With the ball, Russell picked 11 wickets at a strike rate of 16.45. There are rumors Russell wants to bat higher up the order and it will be interesting to see if he gets his way.
The most expensive overseas player and the second most expensive player in IPL history, Pat Cummins will be expected to lead the bowling attack which struggled with inexperience and injuries last year.
Sandeep Warrier, the medium pacer from Kerala, made his IPL debut in 2019 for KKR. He picked up just two wickets in three outings but did impress with his control. The economy of 7.08 is impressive for a newcomer on pitches that were batting friendly.
M Siddharth was snapped by KKR after he impressed Dinesh Karthik in the Syed Mushtaq Ali trophy. The left-arm orthodox spinner might get a look in if the management wants to bring in Tom Banton for Sunil Narine. Moreover, on slow and low pitches like those in the UAE
Kuldeep Yadav had a forgettable season in 2019, He has been in and out of the Indian team since then but has shown glimpses of brilliance every now and then. KKR will want Kuldeep to return to his best especially with conditions expected to favour spin and experienced spinner Piyush Chawla now donning the colours of CSK.
Prasidh Krishna emerged into the scene in 2018 and performed decently for a debutant. In the 7 games he played, Krishna picked 10 wickets at a strike rate of 16.80. However, 2019 was a disappointing season for Krishna as he picked up just 4 wickets at an average of 94, the worst amongst bowlers in IPL 2019. He might start but if he struggles KKR might change their combination and get Lockie Ferguson for him while Siddhesh Lad might replace Morgan. Lad after a number of years sitting on the bench for Mumbai Indians might finally get a look in with KKR.
