IPL 2017: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) Predicted Playing XI

The Bangalore franchise is like the bright kid in school who is well versed with everything, but forgets all of it during the actual exam. Their IPL 10 journey has begun on a horrible note, with no Virat Kohli to start the tournament, and KL Rahul sidelined for the whole edition. Sarfaraz Khan was a late entrant to the list, injuring his leg during one of the practice sessions.

As has been the case for several seasons, Bangalore’s team balance seems skewed towards the batting side, despite the absence of Kohli. The composition isn’t ideal, especially because players like Gayle and Watson don’t play for their respective nations anymore, and the bowling is also low on international experience. 

It is up to the big names to stand up and deliver, and the youngsters to play the supporting role with earnestness. Here’s a look at what the starting XI might look like against the Sunrisers Hyderabad for their opening match:

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Openers:

Chris Gayle

The maverick is back. His stocks might have dropped, and the international appearances diminished, but Chris Gayle, even at 37, can smack a cricket ball far and wide. The RCB top order is reeling with injury blows, and a characteristically free-flowing Gayle might have to play a more responsible role at the top. 

A proven star for the Bangalore franchise, Gayle didn’t have an exceptional IPL 2016. The recent Pakistan Super League failed to see him generate even one 50+ score. The signs aren’t good, but Gayle has never worked on track records. Watching the vociferous Bengaluru crowd cheer from the sidelines of a tiny Chinnaswamy ground, the giant might wake up and deliver a sucker punch.

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Shane Watson (Captain)

His last international game was exactly one year ago. Yet, he has been plying his trade with T20 leagues around the world, more recently in the Big Bash and the PSL. The numbers might not be very impressive, but returning to the IPL, a tournament that gave his career a huge boost, might bring back the Watson of old.

He hinted at playing high up the order, and with no Virat Kohli or KL Rahul to open the innings, he might return to reprise the opener’s role, a job that he did with aplomb for the Rajasthan Royals. Also in the focus will be his bowling, for the innocuous medium pace has been a regular feature across seasons. Also, in the absence of Kohli, Watson will be captaining the side.