IPL 2019: The most threatening batsman from each team
The T20 format is much more suited for batsmen and over the years, we have witnessed some stupendous performances in the Indian Premier League. Some great names have gone on to dominate the proceedings. Going into IPL 2019, teams will look up to their most prized asset. Earlier, we analyzed the most threatening bowler and all-rounder from each team. This time it's the batsmen.
Virat Kohli- Royal Challengers Bangalore
Royal Challengers Bangalore's batting will revolve around Virat Kohli in IPL 2019. When Kohli is on song, no bowler can stop his onslaught. The 2016 Orange Cap winner is likely to open the batting in IPL12. He has been delivering consistent performances for India and would like to replicate the same for RCB. Kohli struck 530 runs last season at an average of 48.18.
Rishabh Pant- Delhi Capitals
Delhi Capitals have some talented batsmen in their ranks, but Rishabh Pant stands out. The southpaw was terrific for the side in IPL 11 but didn't get much support from other players. His 684 runs from 14 matches was probably the only bright aspect of Delhi's campaign, last term. Pant's strike-rate of 173.60 tells us how lethal the wicket-keeper batsman can be in T20s.
Kane Williamson- Sunrisers Hyderabad
The New Zealand skipper was in top gear in IPL 11 and won the Orange Cap after amassing 735 runs from 17 matches. The Kiwi sensation hit eight fifties last season. This term, the Orange Army will have David Warner back, but Williamson's international form means that he is still their best bet. Williamson would look to guide SRH to title glory in 2019.
Dinesh Karthik- Kolkata Knight Riders
Kolkata Knight Riders skipper Dinesh Karthik's influence in the team is massive. His ability to pick the right spots and rotate the strike with ease, makes him KKR's best batsman. He finished as KKR's top run-scorer in his debut season (498 runs). Once again, DK's role would be to finish off close games, something he has been doing magnificently for Team India.
Jos Buttler- Rajasthan Royals
The fortunes of Rajasthan Royals took a turn last season when they made a tactical shift by letting Jos Buttler open the innings. This season he will leave the IPL in April end for World Cup preparations, but the Englishman can take charge from the first match. His ability to hit lusty blows makes him a dangerous entity. He scored 548 runs, last season.
Shane Watson- Chennai Super Kings
Veteran T20 stalwart Shane Watson showed his capabilities as a big match player after smashing a hundred in IPL 11 finale against SRH. The all-rounder is daunting for any opposition. Watson paces his innings well and plays responsibly. He scored 555 runs in 15 matches last season for Chennai Super Kings. The Aussie stood out with two centuries and an equal number of fifties.
Whom will MI and KXIP look up to?
Mumbai Indians will look up to their skipper Rohit Sharma to build their innings. Last season, he couldn't quite stake a claim after hitting just 286 runs in 14 matches. But he is still their best bet. Kings XI Punjab saw KL Rahul tormenting bowlers in IPL 11. The Indian cricketer hit 659 runs at a strike-rate of 158.41, including six fifties.
