IPL 2019, Match 4: Rajasthan Royals vs Kings XI Punjab- KXIP Probable XI

The 12^th edition of the Indian Premier League got underway yesterday and it was Chennai Super Kings who defeated Kings XI Punjab quite convincingly by 7 wickets in the end. Kings XI Punjab began their campaign tomorrow with an away game against the Rajasthan Royals. Last year they started off brilliantly and won 5 of their first 6 matches. However, they lost the same number of matches in the last phase which cost them dearly. They eventually failed to qualify for the playoffs following a loss against the Chennai Super Kings in their last group game.

Now with the 4^th match of IPL 12 to begin in a little more than 24 hours time let us have a look at the Probable XI for the Kings XI Punjab.

KL Rahul

The swashbuckling right-handed batsman had a terrific season last year. He got Kings XI Punjab to exceptional starts on a consistent basis. It was due to his heroics at the top of the order, Kings XI Punjab won 5 of their first 6 games. He continued his rich vein of form all through the tournament but his team lost the momentum and eventually failed to qualify for the playoffs. It will be a very important season for Rahul if harbours hopes of making it to the playoffs.

Chris Gayle

The Universe Boss began last year’s tournament with a bang. He batted with utmost ease and smashed a century and 3 fifties in quick time. However, he had a horrendous time in the last 6 matches which also reflected in the performance of his franchise. He comes into the tournament on the back of a couple of centuries and a couple of fifties during the 5 match series against England.

Mayank Agarwal

He opened the innings for India in Test cricket recently and made a mark for himself with a couple of half-centuries in Australia. Agarwal is a terrific young player. However, he hasn’t managed to make it big in IPL. This year might well be the make or break season for Mayank Agarwal as predicted by Kings XI Punjab coach Mike Hesson.

Karun Nair

He is an able middle order batsman and did a good job for Punjab last year. He might be a good option for Punjab at No 4 given his ability to play the big shots and also play the anchor’s role when required. Karu Nair should be in the Playing XI for Punjab’s first game of the competition.

David Miller

The South African swashbuckling batsman continues to be an important player for Kings XI Punjab. He has been with the franchise for the last 6-7 years and has seen their team’s below par performances over the years. He hasn’t been consistent enough which hasn’t helped Punjab either. He will definitely be part of the Playing XI in their opening match. If he gets going he is a difficult customer and he will hope for more of the same this season.

Moises Henriques

The Australian all-rounder has been a good player in the shortest format over the years and might be part of Punjab’s Playing XI in the opening match. His all-round abilities lends any team a perfect balance and Punjab will be hoping for the same this year. Henriques is a good striker of the ball and can also give his captain some crucial overs.

Ravichandran Ashwin

Ashwin will lead the team and also the spin attack. His captaincy will be tested yet again and the wily off spinner will look to come out all guns blazing and push the selectors for a spot in the Indian ODI team. He is a classic off spinner and can also contribute some important runs with the bat.

Sam Curran

I will be tempted to give Sam Curran his maiden cap in IPL cricket. He is a terrific young player and has the ability to change the game with both his bat and ball. It was Sam Curran who proved to be the difference during the Test series in England. It was his all-round exploits which helped England win the series 4-1.

Mohammed Shami

It will be an important season for the Bengal pacer. He has suddenly came into the limelight with some impressive performances in white ball cricket. At this point of time, he might well be the 2^nd choice pacer ahead of Bhuvneshwar Kumar. He should be managed well ahead of the World Cup as he will play an important role in India’s chances in the World Cup.

Varun Chakravarthy

Chakravarthy was bought at the auctions for a whopping Rs 5 crores. He is a mystery spinner and made a mark during the Tamil Nadu Premier League. Given his X factor abilities, Varun Chakravarthy might be given his maiden IPL game tomorrow. He has the ability to turn the ball both ways.

Ankit Rajpoot

He was one of the top performers for Kings XI Punjab last year. He is a nippy customer and can hurry any batsmen with his pace and bounce. He bagged a 5 wicket haul against the Sunrisers Hyderabad last year. In all likelihood, Rajpoot will be part of the Playing XI in their opening match.