IPL 2019: Ranking the eight teams based on squad strength
What's the story
The next season of the League'>Indian Premier League is set to start in two months' time. This edition of the tourney promises to be an enthralling affair, with several teams looking strong. Most of the franchises had a productive auction last month and would be giving it all to win the global league. Here we rank the eight teams based on their squad strength.
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The rationale behind the ranking
We have decided to rank the teams based on the squads at their disposal, beside their performance in the last season of the tournament. Further, we have taken into account how many players of a side can impact the campaign and make their presence felt.
CSK
Chennai Super Kings are the number one ranked side
Chennai Super Kings are ranked number one and MS Dhoni's side is the favorite to defend the title. They have a squad full of match-winners and the best aspect of Chennai is their structure. CSK retained almost everybody and they have a well-defined plan in place. Their consistency makes them top-ranked side. Players like Suresh Raina and Dwayne Bravo can have maximum impact.
SRH
Sunrisers Hyderabad ranked second in our list
In 2018, we saw Sunrisers Hyderabad successfully defending modest scores without much difficulty. Their bowlers put in commendable shifts that helped them win low-scoring contests. SRH have a settled side, almost like CSK and they have the best pace bowling unit in the IPL. Rashid Khan and Kane Williamson could define the campaign. Further, David Warner's addition gives them a shot in the arm.
KKR
Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata Knight Riders are ranked third
Kolkata Knight Riders are ranked third. Their young brigade has a lot of potential. Further, KKR's West Indian powerhouses are proven match-winners. KKR have an able leader in Dinesh Karthik. Youngsters like Shubman Gill are enjoying good form in domestic circuit. KKR's three ace spinners hold the key. They have made some decent acquisitions and these players could have a say from the bench.
Delhi Capitals
Delhi Capitals are ranked fourth, they have quality on offer
DC's batting will revolve around the Indian stars. The likes of Prithvi Shaw, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant are world-class names. They had a dismal campaign last year, but this time around, DC can thrive and make it to the play-offs. The acquisition of Colin Ingram was a sound decision. DC are the dark horses of this season and can perform well.
MI, RCB
MI and RCB follow suit in the list
Mumbai Indians are ranked fifth. However, Rohit Sharma's side has massive experience. MI have decent names to hurt oppositions on their day. MI have some holes in the squad, but they would stay near the top four sides. Royal Challengers Bangalore follow suit. Virat Kohli's side has not lived up to expectations, and even this time they might not be able to go far.
RR, KXIP
RR and KXIP come seventh and eighth in the ranking
RR have several issues at hand, especially with their batting. They couldn't do much in the auction. Royals will find it hard to enter the play-offs like last term. The injury to Steve Smith is a big blow. Kings XI Punjab went for a complete overhaul just like last season. A new squad will be tested, and that's why KXIP are ranked last.