IPL 2019: Five reasons why KKR can win the title
What's the story
While IPL 2019 is off to a flying start, it was former champions Kolkata Knight Riders, which produced a brilliant performance, on Sunday, to set the stage on fire. As they chased down a mammoth total against Sunrisers Hyderabad, KKR have proved why they are a force to reckon with in IPL. Here are five reasons why they can win the title this year.
Latest story
KKR defy all odds to draw first blood
Having set a challenging total of 182 by Sunrisers Hyderabad, it looked like things won't go in favor of KKR. Further, they didn't get the desired start as they lost Chris Lynn in second over. However, Nitish Rana's 47-ball 68, followed by Andre Russell's boisterous 19-ball 49 and Shubman Gill's perfect finishing touch helped them to steal one under the nose of the visitors.
Reliable top-order
KKR do have a reliable top-order
It is evident by the names that KKR do have one of the most destructive top-orders. With the likes of Chris Lynn, Nitish, Robin Uthappa and Sunil Narine, even an early wicket won't hurt the side. As happened on Sunday, while Lynn was dismissed early, it was Nitish and Uthappa who took charge to set up the stage for KKR's monumental chase.
Middle-order
The middle-order is equally strong
Though KKR do have a fearful top-order, it is likely that it would fail in a match or two. However, KKR do have the backup in the form of their middle-order, which is not reliant on top-order. With the likes of skipper Dinesh Karthik and Russell, along with Gill and Carlos Brathwaite, KKR can easily rely on their middle-order to build fruitful innings.
Power
Russell and Narine the key to KKR's success?
While the overall team looks set, the team has two key men, who could play a crucial role in the success of KKR. Narine, being the mystery spinner and an explosive opener, can easily give the perfect start to the side. Russell is a reliable all-rounder, who can churn out wickets at crucial stages, and play some big hits when it matters the most.
Bowler's paradise
A pool of all-round bowling option
While it seems like KKR do have plenty of batting and all-round options, their bowling arsenal too is packed with several match-winners. From the pool comprising of Piyush Chawla, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Harry Gurney and Lockie Ferguson, along with a bunch of all-rounders, KKR can go all out. Further, KKR's spin department is a lethal one and can help them defend low totals.
Captaincy
Karthik is a smart leader
The captain can't be left behind, and Karthik is one of the veterans of the tournament. While KKR is his first venture as IPL skipper, he does know how to pick the right bowlers and batsman, judging smartly by the gameplay scenario. His side finished as the second runners-up last year and he could very well lead them to the title this year.