IPL 2018: 4 Best opening combinations for RCB

Royal Challengers Bangalore did reasonably well at the IPL 2018 players auction in January. For the first time in their 10-year history, they look well balanced on paper in terms of both batting and bowling.

This year, they chose to invest sensibly on quality players and didn't splurge on the big names like they usually do. With as many as six openers in their squad, they do have a problem of plenty when it comes to opening combinations.

It remains to be seen as to which pair will walk out to open the innings in their first game of the season against the Kolkata Knight Riders. Let us look at four combinations that will most likely be used by RCB.

#1 Brendon Mccullum - Parthiv Patel

Parthiv Patel is a player who relies on timing and plays the ball with finesse, whereas Brendon McCullum is known for his explosive power at the top of the order. Both these batsmen could complement each other in terms of batting style.

Another plus point is the left-right combination that they'll form at the top of the order. This pair provides RCB stability. Parthiv was in splendid form for Gujarat in the recently concluded Vijay Hazare trophy, where he scored a well crafted 143 against the defending champions Mumbai.

On the other hand, Brendon McCullum was not particularly in great nick in the Pakistan Super League earlier this year. He finished the tournament with three single-digit scores and a high score of 44 against the Karachi Kings in Dubai.

One can never count him out though and he will be a force to reckon with in IPL 2018. He will be looking to find some form for RCB early on in the season. This could prove to be the ideal opening pair for RCB!