IPL 2018: Probable playing XI for Kings XI Punjab
What's the story
In the past 10 editions, Kings XI Punjab have always been considered as the minnows which lack big stars and probably the financial firepower. But this time around, Preity Zinta was one of the most aggressive bidders at the auction and she has managed to bag a quality side. Here we analyze the probable starting XI for Kings XI Punjab.
Openers
Aaron Finch and Chris Gayle
In Finch and Gayle, the Kings XI have an explosive opening pair. Both the players are clean strikers of the ball and their presence at the top will bring in the firepower. 'Universe Boss' Gayle will try and recreate his success he had in initial seasons. If these two get going and are not stopped early, we will be looking at massive totals.
Middle order
KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Karun Nair and Yuvraj
Kings XI paid a sum of Rs. 11 crore for KL Rahul and will be hoping that he delivers with the bat as well as the gloves. Karnataka duo Mayank Agarwal and Karun Nair will constitute the middle order. Mayank had an amazing domestic season. On his day, Yuvraj can put the best of the bowlers to shame.
All-rounders
Axar Patel and Marcus Stoinis
Axar Patel was the only player retained by Punjab, which means he should be a no-brainer in their playing XI. Of late, the all-rounder has fallen down the pecking order in the Indian national team set-up but there is no denying that he is a quality player. Aussie all-rounder Marcus Stoinis was retained using the RTM card and he should also make the XI.
Bowlers
R Ashwin, Mohit Sharma and Andrew Tye
Ravichandran Ashwin will lead the side and will be the premier bowler for Kings XI. Mohit Sharma and Australian bowler Andrew Tye should be drafted into the squad to share the new ball between them. Tye was impressive in the Big Bash League. He represented Gujarat Lions in the last edition of IPL and picked up 12 wickets in his 6 appearances.