IPL 2019: Powerplay bowling options for each team
IPL 2019 is less than a month away. The schedule for the first two weeks of the tournament is out and the defending champions Chennai Super Kings will play Royal Challengers Bangalore in the tournament opener on March 23 at Chepauk. Teams for the 12th edition of the tournament were finalised at the auction held in December.
Coming to the game, powerplay overs are key in a T20 game. More often than not, the first six overs of a T20 innings have a huge say in the outcome of the game. It is arguably the toughest period to bowl in a T20 game as batsmen try to take advantage of the field restrictions.
Some captains tend to start with spinners while others go the old fashioned way with pace and swing. It is important for the captains to be creative with their bowling options in the powerplay overs.
Here in this article, let's take a look at the powerplay bowling options for each team.
#8 Delhi Capitals
Delhi Capitals have arguably the most fearsome batting lineup in the tournament. They have made some shrewd buys in the auctions and Axar Patel is definitely one of them. Ishant Sharma is expected to take the new ball with likes of Rabada or Boult.
Avesh Khan is also an option with the new ball. Lamichhane, with his variations, is a wicket-taking option in the powerplay overs. Chris Morris also has done well for them in the past with the new ball.
Likely powerplay bowlers: Rabada/Boult, Sharma/Avesh Khan, Morris, and Lamichhane.
#7 Rajasthan Royals
Royals have made some good buys in the auction. They have a good bowling line up with new signings like Thomas, Aaron, and Unadkat. Jofra Archer is definitely their best option in powerplay overs with his pace and variations.
Gowtham did well in the first six overs last season and could bowl an over or two. Unadkat is expected to share the new ball with Archer. Stokes is a decent option as well.
Likely powerplay bowlers: Gowtham, Archer, Unadkat, Stokes, and Aaron.