The 13th edition of the cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL) would be the third occasions of the tournament being held overseas. And, being held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the second time, the teams have a fair idea of how things work in the gulf country.
undefined
While the playing conditions would be marginally different than the usual sub-continental conditions, it would not limit the performance of the players, especially the batsmen, who are once again set to soar the skies with their combustible hitting. As fans get ready for another action-packed edition, we take a look at some batsmen who are certain to go big once again, in this edition.
undefined
Andre Russell (KKR): Undoubtedly, the top of the list has to be occupied by the new Jamaican sensation, Andre Russell. It was the last season where he was on top for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for his fiery hitting abilities, as he won a number of accolades for not just entertaining the fans, but also rescuing his side. Expect things to remain the same this season too.
undefined
David Warner (SRH): Flamboyant Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) opener David Warner possesses unique aggression that makes him play big knocks, courtesy some fine hitting. He is known to provide perfect starts, which generally turns into a quickfire, thus setting the platform for a huge total. Since the conclusion of IPL 2019, he has played 11 T20Is, scoring 473 runs at a whopping average of 94.60. Need we say more?
undefined
AB de Villiers (RCB): The retired South African swashbuckling opener never fails to impress in the IPL. Known for his lofty hitting abilities, he can clear the park with ease. Furthermore, being a regular in T20 tournaments across the globe has kept him fit enough and in the groove for more such pleasant innings. It would be a total surprise if he fails to click this edition, which would certainly spell bad news for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).
undefined
Chris Gayle (KXIP): When it comes to soaring the skies, one of the men who has entertained over the years is the 'Universe Boss', Chris Gayle, from Jamaica. Although he holds ample records in the tournament, he is at the end of his career. Aged 40, he might not be the same as before. However, as long as he is on the crease, one just cannot afford to rule him out, since he has a knack of pulling off surprises. A total failure on Gayle's part would instead be the most shocking moment of the tournament.
undefined
Hardik Pandya (MI): Mumbai Indians (MI) all-rounder Hardik Pandya has risen to fame owing to his hard-hitting abilities, especially against the spinners. He scored 402 runs in 15 innings last season at a fine average of 44.66, while he also hit the most sixes for his side. That definitely proves that he is the biggest hitter in the squad. Although he might have been out of action for some time, owing to his injuries, his recent training sessions indicate that he is not lost his touch at all.
undefined
Virat Kohli (RCB): The RCB skipper, Virat Kohli, is known for playing exalted innings as per the situation. And, if needed, he could go big and score big, while his shots are indeed entertaining for the fans. With the support of de Villiers, Kohli can undoubtedly put on a great show, as fans are unmistakably in for a treat.
undefined