IPL 2019: Five RCB players to watch out for
The IPL 2019 is all set to get underway from today as the fans would witness another thriller. One of the teams which would try to make an impact this season would be Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), as they look to win their maiden title. Which are the top five RCB players who could set the stage on fire? Let us analyze.
Captain's last shot at the title?
Virat Kohli has been the longest-reigning captain without a title. Nonetheless, the franchise has shown faith in him for another season as he looks to lay hands on the coveted trophy for the first time. However, this could very well be his last shot at the title as the skipper of the side. Thus, he needs to prove himself as a captain this season.
Another perfect ABD show!
Whenever AB de Villiers steps onto the field with the bat, it's a spectacle to watch, especially for the crowd. Moreover, having now retired from international duties, he hardly has any pressure on him and can play fearless cricket. Nevertheless, he would have a grave task of leading the batting order as he too aims to lay his hands on his first-ever IPL trophy.
Will the Australian's all-round performance be enough?
Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis has been in excellent form. Having proved himself in the recently concluded ODI series in India, Stoinis would be looking to carry the momentum into IPL. However, it won't be enough to dictate the show with the bat, as he also needs to come up with some brilliance with the ball. He is RCB's best bet in the all-round department.
Leggie's chance to spin the yarn for RCB
Indian leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal has been dominating with his lethal spin in international cricket. Over the years, he has also made quite an impact playing in the IPL. However, it has not been enough to lead RCB to a title win. Having played 10 T20Is since IPL 2018, he has claimed 11 wickets at an average of 29.63. Thus, Chahal has something to prove.
Can Umesh Yadav's fatal pace lift RCB?
Indian pacer Umesh Yadav is still not certain to make it to the World Cup squad. However, if he happens to come up with a fine performance and lead RCB to a title win, he is sure to seal his ticket to England. Since the IPL 2018 final, he has played just six T20Is, and picked up eight wickets at an average of 24.37.
Special mention: An underrated Kiwi who could be fatal
While Tim Southee is a popular face in international cricket, he does not garner the same respect in IPL. Nonetheless, the author feels that the classy pacer, who can also play as an all-rounder, can be fatal for anyone who takes him lightly. Although underrated, Southee can destroy any batting order with his pace, and can also thrash a bowling attack with the bat.
