IPL 6 - PREDICTIONS FOR THE TOP 4 TEAMS

IPL 6 is just few hours away from kickoff and the excitement is building. Predicting outcomes, much like strategic team meetings forms an integral part for die hard cricket follower. Just, before I unveil my predictions, I would like to take a statutory declaration, Predictions are subject to market risk. Considering the nature of format T20, anything is possible. Did anyone ever think Rajasthan Royals could have won the inaugural IPL?!. Did anyone in their wildest dreams think India could win the inaugural edition of the ICC T20 World Cup?! I’m sure most of us would have said no.

Predictions for the PlayOffs:

I)             Mumbai Indians – Pool of Talent

They have always had the stars and loads of talent. What they lacked for 5 seasons, was a world-class leader, they  have covered that base with the inclusion of Ricky Ponting, who has been the most successful captain of this era. The addition of the duo, John Wright and Anil Kumble means they are very concerned about the management of their resources.

Key Players: 

1)    Lasith Malinga - He has been their go to man in any situation and his consistency with his darting yorkers has been vital for them.

2)    Rohit Sharma – If there is one place where he has been consistent, then it’s the IPL.

X Factor – Glenn Maxwell
The million dollar signing has surely added a million dollar question in the fans of MI. Is he worth it?! Handy off spinners and his big hitting abilities could surely be impactful. 

Challenge
1)    With the playoffs being scheduled in Chennai, Malinga’s unavailability could change fortune at a vital stage.

2)    Ricky Ponting, being appointed as captain means he is assured of a slot in XI. If he fails to create an impact, MI will be in dilemma considering the strong bench strength of foreign recruits.

II)            Chennai Super Kings – Consistent Captain Cool & his boys

This is one team which cannot escape being predicted in the top 4. The boys in yellow have been very consistent and dominant, much like the Aussies in the early 2000s.

Key Players:

1)    Suresh Raina - Having scored most runs in the overall IPL history, his force and consistency has been parallel with the success of CSK.

2)    R Ashwin – An intelligent T20 bowler who can bowl with the new ball & in the death overs. His consistency &performances have now made India’s primary spinner.

 X Factor – Chris Morris

Their latest addition, tall, fast & strong, his all round abilities could prove impactful.

Challenge

1)    The lack of Indian fast bowlers could hamper their team balance, if they are forced to change their team combination anytime in course of the IPL.

III)          Royal Challengers Bangalore – Destructive Powerhouse

Two-time finalists and yet no cup, they have choked at the wrong moments. They surely have the most desired overseas players. What they lacked last season was a quality all rounder and they have made some useful addition (M Henriques, D Christian & C Barnwell). Also, they have made smart additions on the Indian bowling front (M Kartik and RP Singh) as a result the team looks much more balanced.     

Key Players:

1) Chris “GAYLE” – Don’t need to write anything here

2) Virat Kohli –He has shown the big stage how consistent and dominant. The added responsibility of captaincy could bring an added vengeance and dimension to his game.

X Factor – Moises Henriques

RCB suffered the lack of an all rounder last season on few occasions. He could the the one to fill in that role of the much needed all rounder in this format.

Challenge

1)    With the amount of overseas match winners, picking the right combination will be no less than a challenge.

2)    Inexperienced underperforming bowling attack

IV)             Pune Warriors India – Talented Underachievers

They have had a torrid time so far at the IPL. This year their teams looks very balanced. Their story so far has been much like KKR, with changing captains & team combinations, to the legend Sourav Ganguly being excluded. Can their destiny change like it did for KKR!?


Key Players:
1)    Yuvraj Singh – The instrumental, reborn and loved “Yuvi” will be welcomed back. His presence is sure to win hearts and bring a new dimension to their game

2)    Marlon Samuels – He was one of the key players to the success of the West Indies camp at the last T20 World Cup. He could play an important all round role for them .

X Factor – A Mathews

Newly appointed captain & a genuine all rounder could prove handy with both, bat and ball.

Challenge

1)    They will miss their captain, Mathews and mystery spinner, A Mendis in Chennai, this could prove costly in an eliminating contest.