The Indian Premier League (IPL) is all set to enter its 12th season in just a few hours. While one would have thought the format would have been figured out by now, this year brings with it something new and exciting.
For the first time ever, the teams are battling it out just before the 50 over World Cup! Sticking to the traditions of the past IPLs, this new season also brings with it anticipation and excitement. With the final lists of the team being locked in a while ago, here is taking a quick run through of what the eleven teams have in store.
Chennai Super Kings
Known for having primarily members who are more than 30 years of age, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has proved its seniority in the game with the players they recruit. By retaining 23 of its players, CSK is working on a strategy which won it the winning title not one, but three times in a row!
Delhi Capitals
Despite having one of the largest scoring members of the Indian cricket team, Shikhar Dhawan, Prithvi Shaw, Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant, the Delhi Capitals did not manage to bag the winning title so far. Easily one of the most disappointing teams from the IPL, only time will tell if the new season brings winners or losers to the table for Delhi this year.
Kolkata Knight Riders
Under the captainship of Dinesh Karthik, the Kolkata Knight Riders made quite a mark in the last season. With smart buys and a good all round strategy, the team stayed in quite a good form. However, because of three of its major players being injured, the team lost its chance of making it to the top. This year also, they have a strong rating and as the matches kick off tomorrow, only time will tell what’s going to happen.
Kings XI Punjab
Just like the Delhi Capitals, Kings XI Punjab did not make it to the top five leaders in the game. Making it to the finals only once in the last 11 seasons, the Gayle and Rahul partnership looks to be extremely promising.
Sunrisers Hyderabad
When it comes to working the auctions, Sunrisers Hyderabad have the strongest strategy in question. One of the best things they could have done was to exchange Shikhar Dhawan for three players – Vijay Shankar, Shahbaz Nadeem and Abhishek Sharma. Furthermore, the return of David Warner adds some much needed strength to an already strong team!
Rajasthan Royals
One of the biggest changes Rajasthan Royals saw during the auction this year is the addition of Steve Smith to the team. With the presence of Jos Buttler, Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer, Rajasthan Royals are definitely looking at giving the other teams tough competition.
Mumbai Indians
The Mumbai Indians seem to think their previous team strength is still working in their favour. However, in an attempt to up their game and mix things up, the team has added 9 new players to their roster. With these new changes, the Mumbai Indians are charging up for a brilliant new season!
Royal Challengers Bangalore
With De Villers being the on point batsman for this team, it seems like the Royal Challengers Bangalore are putting all their hopes on this supremely talented man! However, like for the other teams, this year also brings about new changes and new opportunities for the team from Karnataka.
With so many changes and all the eight teams gearing up to put their best foot forward, the 2019 IPL is going to be an extremely exciting watch!
Stay tuned for more updates about the IPL!
