The much anticipated IPL is finally here as we will be witnessing the start of the tournament in around 24 hours from now. The first match is going to be played between Bangalore and Kolkata on March 22.
Coming to the topic, here is a look at our projection when it comes to the knockout stages and also the winner of the tournament this year.
We are projecting Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Gujarat Giants to be the contender for the knockout positions after the completion of the league stage.
These are looking the most settled and threatening sides in the tournament this year. They have the most number of match when players at their disposal and also a mix of gun all rounders.
On paper, Hyderabad looks to be the strongest with virtually every base covered, including batting and bowling.
Mumbai Indians are close second on this list with their incredible squad depth, and also the rich tradition of having won IPL a record equalling five times. Things are looking very positive for this Mumbai based team this year as well.
It might be a shocking mission, not to see Chennai Super Kings on this list after their incredible consistency over the years. But this team simply doesn’t appear to have the same killer instinct this year. The hype around Dhoni is going to be there, but in terms of team composition and X factor, it is lacking.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru have a decent enough of a squad, but the lack of consistency might be costing them again this year as well.
It must be noted that this list is compiled entirely based on the current day, square depth and the killer instinct amongst the possible 11.
