Indian Premier League’s thirteenth edition is all set to kick from 19th September 2020. Top players from all across the globe will be part of India’s cash-rich league once again, this time in the UAE. Through the years, a number of eminent all-rounders have added the tournament’s necessary glamour.
Here Are The Five All-Rounders To Look Out For This Season:
1. Ben Stokes – Rajasthan Royals
Up to now, England’s all-rounder Ben Stokes may not have justified his gigantic price tag but his recent red-ball cricket form brings the spotlight on him.
Through launching powerful blows and making breakthroughs through platforms, he holds the power to single-handedly sway the momentum.
But the sad news is RR franchise is “not sure” about the availability of star all-rounder Ben Stokes in the upcoming IPL as he is attending his ailing father in New Zealand. He hasn’t yet withdrawn from IPL 2020 but his availability remains a doubt
2. Andre Russell – Kolkata Knight Riders
Last year, Andre Russell was a cut above the rest, even though Kolkata Knight Riders struggled to book a berth for the playoffs. With his belligerent batting style, he pulled off some unplausible run-chases.
But in the recent CPL tournament – Russell was not in his prime form and he was slightly struggling with Bat and Ball.
Most notably, Russell smashed the season’s most sixes (52), 18 more than the next best (34-Chris Gayle). The Caribbean all-rounder even comes handy on death with the ball. And he is ready to continue the same form in this season too.
3. Dwayne Bravo – Chennai Super Kings
One should never underestimate Dwayne Bravo’s all-round credentials in T20 cricket. His blinder in the 2018 IPL opener against the Mumbai Indians is a classic example. The stalwart of the Chennai Super Kings will try to replicate the display even in the upcoming season.
He could become the first-ever player in the tournament to complete a double of 1,500 runs and 150 wickets.
Bravo had a fantastic CPL tournament, and he has played a crucial role in all the league matches for TKR.
4. Hardik Pandya – Mumbai Indians
Hardik Pandya has become a coveted possession of Mumbai Indians in the IPL. The Indian all-rounder made a blistering return in the DY Patil T20 Cup earlier this year, from his lower back injury.
Pandya scored 402 runs in the previous IPL version and also picked up 14 wickets. It remains to be seen if, this time around, his expertise paves the way for MI.
And in the MI practice camp Pandya was displaying his destructive form and we might see some Pandya Flyers this season.
5. Sam Curran- Chennai Super Kings
In 2019, Sam Curran entered record books with a maiden IPL hat-trick recorded. However, due to his erratic run Kings XI Punjab released him after the season.
The budding all-rounder was then sold in IPL 2020 auction to Chennai Super Kings. Skipper MS Dhoni could use it wisely to get the best out of him this season.
Well, Sam Curran might miss his first 2 games for CSK because of the Australian series in England.