Over the years, The Punjab Kings have changed their captains and their core team in search of a first IPL trophy which they would desire this season as well. The franchise will play five matches in Bengaluru, four matches in Ahmedabad, three matches in Mumbai and two matches in Chennai. It remains to be seen if a new name and logo will bring about a change in their fortunes.

Strengths : –

A strong top order that has contributed in most of their victories including skipper KL Rahul who won the Orange Cap last season with 670 runs in 14 games. The recruitment of Dawid Malan will further strengthen the department.

The latest auction picks, Jhye and Shah Rukh are in good form.

Two leg-spinners who are good enough to find a place in the XI together, is always a boon as they prove to be wicket-takers more often than not.

Most of the batsmen from the top 4 are fast starters.

Depth in the overseas all-rounder’s department with Henriques, Allen and Jordan available.

Image courtesy : Punjab Kings / Twitter

Weaknesses : –

Lack of a quality Indian middle-order batsman. ( Shah Rukh has not been proven.)

The top-heavy line-up will face problems the day they lose early wickets in the powerplay as there sre not many options in the middle-order which relates to the first weakness.

Two of their pace bowlers are new to the side and Shami is returning after a long gap which means that department could take a few games to settle.

Keys to Success : –

  1. KL Rahul to score as many runs he had scored in the previous seasons but at a higher strike-rate.
  2. Pooran should show more consistency + be more dynamic as batting at number 4 is all about adapting.
  3. Make use of the overseas all-rounders at times, as they can add some meat to the lower-order.
  4. A lot depends on how Rahul is able to lead the side.

Team Combinations : –

  1. KL Rahul 2. Mayank 3. Gayle 4. Pooran 5. Shah Rukh 6. Hooda 7. Meredith 8. Jhye 9. Shami 10. Bishnoi 11. Murugan.

Mandeep and Sarfaraz are candidates for the #5 slot. Allen can play at number seven to add batting depth.

Possible Finish : –

Sixth or below.

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