IPL 2017 team by team preview (Part 1) - Kings XI Punjab, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Delhi Daredevils
Kings XI Punjab
Last season
A second consecutive wooden spoon for Kings XI saw the 2014 finalists finish as the sole team with single digits in terms of points in an otherwise tight points table - almost a carbon copy of 2015.
A huge total of 21 players were used during the season, with only five players playing all 14 games.
A lot of the time it was a case of trying new combinations in an attempt to arrest an alarming slump that had occurred since the start of the 2015 season, a stark contrast to the electrifying cricket that took them so close to a maiden title in 2014.
Key players
Following a sensational start to his Kings XI Punjab career in 2014, during which he put up some outrageous numbers, the Australian international has more than failed to hit those same heights in the following two years.
Averaging 34.50 and striking at nearly 188, the 28-year-old struck 552 runs in 16 matches in the most entertaining manner.
Averaging 34.50 and striking at nearly 188, the 28-year-old struck 552 runs in 16 matches in the most entertaining manner.
However, that has not been the case in the last two tournaments. Maxwell scored just 324 runs in the 22 games he played in 2015 and 2016, although his strike rate was typically brazen at a shade over 137.
Nevertheless, he is still a match-winner and has since struck 145 in a t20 international against Sri Lanka in September.
Nevertheless, he is still a match-winner and has since struck 145 in a t20 international against Sri Lanka in September.
Maxwell was also made captain of the Kings XI, exemplifying the faith shown in him to get the best out of himself and his under-performing side.
Sharma has been the standout bowler in the last two seasons for Kings XI and a rare bright light.
His overall IPL economy rate stands at an impressive 7.61, particularly due to the fact that he generally operates within the powerplay overs.
His overall IPL economy rate stands at an impressive 7.61, particularly due to the fact that he generally operates within the powerplay overs.
This aspect of Sandeep's bowling is particularly important for Punjab as they typically have a reliable bowling option up front.
He is not exceptionally quick, but he is consistent with his line and length and swings the ball both ways, making him a nightmare to face first up.
He is not exceptionally quick, but he is consistent with his line and length and swings the ball both ways, making him a nightmare to face first up.
Key auction buys
While he is one of the premier t20 batsmen round the world, Morgan's IPL record does not necessarily reflect his quality in the format.
Overall, he averages just under 22 while striking at just 122.
Morgan will have a good opportunity to improve his IPL numbers in this tournament in the top order in a typically aggressive lineup.
He has been in solid form recently, both for England and for Peshawar Zalmi in the Pakistan Super League.
He will be looking to carry that form into IPL 10 and cement a place in the Kings XI side.
Aaron is a player who has shown immense promise in previous IPLs, but one who has not quite fully delivered on a consistent basis.
Aside from a good 2014, Aaron's numbers in the IPL have flattered to deceive and he has played just 36 games in five seasons.
He has also represented India a total of 18 times in Tests and ODIs over the course of five years from 2011 to 2015, showing he has the talent to make an impact.
With the ability to regularly hit 90mph, if Aaron can find some consistency this season then he could add a different threat to Punjab's bowling attack.
Potential starting XI
Saha, Vohra, Maxwell, Morgan, Miller, Stoinis, Gurkeerat, Axar, Mohit, Aaron, Sandeep
Squad analysis
The Kings XI do have a range of different profiles within their squad, although they are still missing some areas.
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| Last year's leading runscorer Murali Vijay will be a big miss at the top of the order (PHOTO: Indian Express/PTI) |
Despite the withdrawal of Guptill, they are still heavily stacked with overseas batting talent, with Maxwell and Morgan joined by Hashim Amla, Shaun Marsh and David Miller.
However, the withdrawal of last season's leading runscorer, Murali Vijay, will be a huge blow.
Darren Sammy and Marcus Stoinis also add considerable strength to the overseas batting department, although there may be a slight lack in terms of Indian talent.
That is the opposite in terms of bowling options, with Sandeep and Aaron flanked by the likes of Mohit Sharma, Axar Patel, KC Cariappa and Anureet Singh.
Again, however, there is still a feeling that Punjab lack a genuine quality overseas bowler, with Matt Henry the only foreign signing brought in to deal with the release of Kyle Abbott and Mitchell Johnson.
Neither quick did enough to make a quality impact for the Kings XI, and it remains to be seen whether Henry will be able to provide an improvement.
Verdict
It could well be another uphill struggle for Kings XI this year, especially due to their top runscorer from last season missing the whole tournament.
Maxwell will likely bring something different to the table as captain, but he along with the likes of Miller and Morgan will need to produce if they are to climb off the foot of the table for the first time since 2014.
Maxwell will likely bring something different to the table as captain, but he along with the likes of Miller and Morgan will need to produce if they are to climb off the foot of the table for the first time since 2014.
Sunrisers Hyderabad
Last season
The 2016 champions, the Sunrisers were able to call upon a strong bowling attack and the quality of David Warner en route to a maiden IPL title against the star-studded Royal Challengers.
It was a welcome victory for the Hyderabad-based franchise, having finished in sixth the season before.
It was the franchise's first title since rebranding from the Deccan Chargers to the Sunrisers and a cohesive unit was to thank as they went through the Eliminator and second Qualifier to reach the Final, having finished third in the pool stage.
Key players
David Warner
Captain Warner put up typically astounding numbers in 2016, scoring a mammoth 848 runs and passing 50 in more innings than not.
The Australian international is one of the most consistent performers in IPL history, averaging just over 38 and striking at over 140 in 100 matches.
The 30-year-old produced a masterclass in chasing when he struck an unbeaten 93 in the second qualifier to help eclipse Gujarat Lions' 162-7.
While his teammates struggled for starts and failed to provide any real, meaningful partnerships, Warner kept going.
Despite still needing 46 off 25 balls with four wickets remaining when Naman Ojha was dismissed, Warner did not panic.
With the help of Bipul Sharma, the skipper was there at the end to hit the winning run to guide the Sunrisers to the Final with four balls remaining.
It was a similar story in the Final, too, with Warner batting through to the 14th over for 69 off 38 as late hitting from compatriot Ben Cutting saw the Sunrisers to 208, which proved too much for the Royal Challengers.
Mustafizur Rahman
The young Bangladeshi entered the IPL with a reputation for having a deceptive range of deliveries in his armoury.
Despite his relatively tender age, a solid showing in the World t20 set him up for a brilliant IPL campaign in which he claimed 17 wickets at a shade under 25.
Despite his relatively tender age, a solid showing in the World t20 set him up for a brilliant IPL campaign in which he claimed 17 wickets at a shade under 25.
Rahman's economy rate was among the best in the competition at 6.90 and, considering the pressure points in which he bowled during, his numbers are all the more impressive.
A year older, the 21-year-old will once again be an important cog for the Sunrisers, especially in defending their title.
A year older, the 21-year-old will once again be an important cog for the Sunrisers, especially in defending their title.
Key auction buys
Mohammad Nabi
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| Nabi, like Rashid Khan, will be looking to put Afghanistan further on the cricketing map (PHOTO: Christopher Lee-IDI) |
A consistent performer for Afghanistan for almost a decade, Nabi is one of a few eye-catching names to have made a name for themselves within the Afghani cricketing setup.
He brings a hard-hitting ability down the order with the nous to compile important innings, either to continue the work of the top order or rebuild.
His bowling is another part of his arsenal, with his off-spin generating an overall t20 economy rate of just under seven with his nagging line and length often difficult to get away.
He will come into the IPL in good form, having helped his country to victories over Ireland in all three formats, including an incredible 30-ball 89 in a half hour cameo in the third t20I.
Rashid Khan
Joining his compatriot Nabi in signing for the Sunrisers, teenager Rashid Khan is one of the rising stars in world cricket.
He has recently played a starring role in Afghanistan's international games against Ireland, tormenting his opposition with his leg breaks.
He has recently played a starring role in Afghanistan's international games against Ireland, tormenting his opposition with his leg breaks.
Khan proved to be a constant thorn in Ireland's side, taking a total of 30 wickets in nine matches across all three formats, with his 5-3 in the second t20I showing his talents off in sensational fashion.
Rashid is not just a leggie with great control, he is also no mug with the bat.
Rashid is not just a leggie with great control, he is also no mug with the bat.
Potential starting XI
Warner, Dhawan, Williamson, Yuvraj, Henriques, Ojha, Hooda, B Kumar, Sran, Nehra, Mustafizur
Squad analysis
The holders have a typically strong starting XI with a quality, varied bowling attack.
A lot, however, may well depend on Warner to get the runs at the top of the innings in his usual consistent manner.
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| Henriques had a brilliant BBL for Sydney Sixers, leading them to the Final (PHOTO: Will Russell - CA) |
A lot, however, may well depend on Warner to get the runs at the top of the innings in his usual consistent manner.
That being said, there is no over-reliance within the bowling ranks, with the potential for a devastating all-seam, four-pronged attack, with young Mohammad Siraj waiting in the wings for a chance.
In addition, to the frontline seamers, Moises Henriques provides another quality option, along with the spin options of Deepak Hooda, Yuvraj, Kane Williamson and/or Nabi.
In addition, to the frontline seamers, Moises Henriques provides another quality option, along with the spin options of Deepak Hooda, Yuvraj, Kane Williamson and/or Nabi.
The overseas contingent within the Sunrisers squad comprises a number of various all-round options, with the aforementioned Jordan, Nabi, Khan and Henriques joined by Aussie Ben Cutting, who played a key role in the title win last year.
Verdict
The holders will of course face a fight to defend their title, with a number of sides looking in good touch ahead of the start of the tournament.
They haven't, however, been hit with any major injuries and with a largely unchanged starting XI, they could yet again be right up there if Warner and the bowling attack fire.
They haven't, however, been hit with any major injuries and with a largely unchanged starting XI, they could yet again be right up there if Warner and the bowling attack fire.
Royal Challengers Bangalore
Last season
It was another case of so close but yet so far for the Royal Challengers, as they succumbed to defeat on their home turf in the Final.
A scarcely-beliveable tournament from captain Virat Kohli propelled Bangalore to the Finals once more, with help from AB de Villiers and Lokesh Rahul.
The bowling, however, was once again a worrying factor at times, with Kohli generally on hand to get his side across the line.
Key players
Virat Kohli
The mind-boggling numbers that Kohli put up last year may not quite be eclipsed this year, with the star batsman racking up almost 1000 runs in the season, comfortably the most in a single season in nine years of the IPL.
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| India and RCB captain Kohli was in ridiculous form in last year's IPL (PHOTO: Matthew Lewis - IDI) |
Injury may well rule the skipper out of the opening few games following an injury to his right shoulder, but that will not stop the 28-year-old from having a big say in the Royal Challengers' chances this year.
He did struggle for form in the Test series against Australia, scoring just 46 runs in five innings and he will be more than determined to make up for that once he gets back on the field for RCB,
His injury will most likely see him unable to match the feats of last season, where he scored four hundreds and seven fifties in just 16 innings, scoring 973 runs in the process.
AB de Villiers
De Villiers, like Kohli, put up some pretty staggering numbers yet again in 2016 as he moved past 3000 IPL career runs.
Again, like Kohli, the 33-year-old may also miss part of the IPL through injury following a knock he sustained during the South African domestic season for the Titans.
De Villiers was in good form for Titans and South Africa before his back complaints resurfaced once again, so he will be looking to shake off his back problem and get back amongst the runs
Key auction buys
Pawan Negi
Negi was somewhat of a revelation in 2015 for Chennai Super Kings and, upon his side's expulsion, Delhi Daredevils made him the highest paid Indian when they acquired his services in the 2016 auction.
He was also selected for the India squad for the 2016 t20 World Cup as his rise was further increased, although he did not get a game.
However, Negi failed to produce his CSK form for the Daredevils, playing just eight games.
In those eight games, the 24-year-old claimed just one wicket from nine expensive overs and got to the middle on just four occasions, making 57 runs in the process.
The signing of Negi is surely a good one for both parties, with RCB needing extra quality within their bowling attack as well as a deeper batting order and Negi needing a home to get back to his 2015 form.
Tymal Mills
The 24-year-old pacer has seen his reputation within the shortest format soar over the last year, culminating in a place in the Royal Challengers squad.
It was not just a place in the squad that Mills would have been ecstatic about, but more the £1.4 million it took for RCB to get his signature.
After an impressive t20 Blast for Sussex, Mills' services were highly sought after throughout world t20 cricket, particularly due to the fact that he is essentially a t20 freelancer because of injury troubles.
The England international was snapped up by Brisbane Heat for the BBL and Quetta Gladiators for the PSL, before landing the second biggest contract of the 2017 IPL auction in February.
Potential starting XI
Gayle, Kohli, de Villiers, Watson, Jadhav, Baby, Sarfaraz, Negi, Harshal, Chahal, Mills
Squad analysis
The Royal Challengers squad was already brimming with talent, particularly on the batting front, but a quiet yet productive auction has shaped their squad nicely.
The initial injuries of Kohli and de Villiers along with the lack of Rahul will likely hurt RCB in the opening section of the tournament, but they do have options to help at least patch up any potential holes in the order.
Travis Head is a more than capable replacement for de Villiers, providing he plays to his potential following a disappointing Big Bash.
Sachin Baby, Sarfaraz Khan, Stuart Binny and Mandeep Singh have all shown what they can do with the bat in the IPL.
Mandeep is perhaps the best option to replace Kohli at the top of the order, having been in good recent form for India A and Punjab.
Mills is perhaps the likely option to spearhead the Challengers' attack ahead of fellow quicks Billy Stanlake and Adam Milne, but certain games may require the ever-reliable Samuel Badree or even include South African chinaman bowler Tabraiz Shamsi.
Verdict
That being said, Chris Gayle and Shane Watson can provide more than enough firepower to cope, along with the likes of Head and Negi.
Delhi Daredevils
Last season
The 2016 IPL started brightly for Delhi, with a new-look young side being captained by the experienced Zaheer Khan.
The Rahul Dravid-led franchise chopped and changed personnel throughout the tournament, with only Karun Nair, Sanju Samson and Amit Mishra playing all 14 games.
That was perhaps to the Daredevils' detriment as consistency waned at times and they missed out on a top four place after losing their all-or-nothing final match up against the Royal Challengers.
Key players
Chris Morris
Morris emerged as a more genuine all-rounder in 2016, with performances against England before topping the Daredevils' averages in IPL 9.
The 29-year-old almost pulled off the most remarkable of chases against Gujarat Lions as his 82 off 32 balls pulled Delhi just one run short.
His bowling in the IPL has always been consistent in terms of wicket-taking and his figures season by season generally read similarly.
His career economy of 7.50 is more than impressive, with his runs conceded per over dropping each year.
Karun Nair
A recent addition to the Indian Test team, Nair's international career has started in interesting fashion after seven innings.
A triple century in his third match, against England, has so far been the sole highlight for the 25-year-old as he has failed to pass 26 in his six other innings.
In the IPL, Nair has had three good seasons, with 2014 and 2016 the particular bright spots.
The former Rajasthan Royals player scored 357 runs in his debut season with the Daredevils last year, including three half centuries.
His pedigree was on show in his maiden IPL season with the Royals, as he compiled 330 runs in 11 innings with another three half centuries, with an impressive strike rate of 142.24.
He will be a key part of a young Indian top order this year for the Daredevils, particularly with Quinton de Kock's absence.
Key auction buys
Corey Anderson
Following his release from Mumbai Indians, the Kiwi all-rounder was snapped up by the Daredevils in the 2017 auction.
A big, burly batsman capable of truly destructive innings and a nippy left-arm seamer, Anderson will be a good option for the Daredevils.
He will, however, face a strong fight for a place in the starting XI with a number of fellow overseas all-rounders all competing for a spot.
Even with the withdrawal of JP Duminy, Anderson will have to see off competition from the likes of Morris, Carlos Brathwaite, Angelo Mathews and Pat Cummins, to name but a few.
Kagiso Rabada
Another fine signing from the Daredevils, Rabada is one of the leading young quicks in world cricket and has been performing to a high level since his international debut two and a half years ago.
There is a serious potential for the Daredevils to field an overseas bowling trio who are capable of reaching genuine pace, with Rabada having the potential to lead the attack as he does for his country.
It will, however, like Anderson, be a fight for the 21-year-old to make it into the lineup with such a strong quota of foreign players.
Potential starting XI
Samson, Iyer, Pant, Nair, Billings, Mathews, Brathwaite, Morris, Mishra, Shami, Zaheer
Squad analysis
On paper, Delhi look to have a very balanced squad with a whole host of options, both homegrown and foreign.
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| The losses of South Africans de Kock and Duminy will be huge for Delhi (PHOTO: Michael Bradley) |
Angelo Mathews is a natural replacement for Duminy, although there are questions about his fitness and may miss at least part of the tournament in what will be a blow to Delhi.
That is the same on the Indian side of the squad, with Murugan Ashwin, Jayant Yadav and Shahbaz Nadeem three further options in the spin department to complement Amit Mishra.
Aditya Tare also has IPL experience behind him and will be a useful option should one of the young players fail to make an impression.
Verdict
Delhi's balance within their squad could well take them deep into the tournament.
They have young, exciting batting talent at the top of the order and a host of options in the middle order with a range of all-rounders with unique profiles.
In the bowling stakes, they have four genuine spin options as well as a quality bunch of fast bowlers.
However, this amount of variety could lead to their rotation policy from last season affect them again and it is up to Dravid and Paddy Upton to choose the right combinations.
The loss of Duminy and in particular de Kock could prove crucial to Delhi's season, with the latter emerging as one of the most dangerous batsmen in world cricket.
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