Kolkata Knight Riders: Five Indians to watch out for
What's the story
The 12th edition of IPL has already started as the teams are all set for another grueling season. Among the eight teams, Kolkata Knight Riders have the most loyal fan base. While they would aim to win their third title to become the joint most successful team, let us analyze their five Indian players who could turn out to be game changers, this term.
Dinesh Karthik
Skipper's leadership and finishing touch would matter
KKR's most valuable player is their veteran skipper Dinesh Karthik, who has been in phenomenal form of late. He finished as the top run-scorer for the side last season, scoring 498 runs in 16 matches, at an average of 49.80, including twin half-centuries, while his top score was 52. With the World Cup spot up for grab, Karthik would look to continue the momentum.
Kuldeep Yadav
Can the chinaman spin the yarn?
Kuldeep Yadav has been enjoying some productive spells for Team India. Moreover, he has also done the same while playing for KKR as he looks to dominate again. Being the joint-most wicket-taker for KKR last season, along with Sunil Narine, Kuldeep claimed 17 from 16 matches at an average of 24.58. With the World Cup around, Kuldeep would leave no stone unturned.
Shubman Gill
Can the U-19 star draw the attention of selectors again?
Having made a name for himself in the 2018 U-19 World Cup, Shubman Gill played a small role for KKR last season. He played 13 games and scored 203 runs at a decent average of 33.83, including a half-century. He would look to do the same again as he aims for the Team India spot, at least post the World Cup.
Prasidh Krishna
A young pacer who can brutalize batsmen
Another young pacer who could be considered a future India prospect is Prasidh Krishna. Having made his IPL debut in 2018, he played seven matches and claimed 10 wickets at an average of 26.00 and an economy of 9.28. He also claimed four for 30 against Sunrisers Hyderabad to show his potential. Given a couple of KKR pacers are injured, Krishna's role becomes important.
Robin Uthappa
Can the experience lead to another title success?
Arguably, Robin Uthappa is the one who knows the side inside-out among the current squad members. Uthappa has been an integral part of KKR since 2014, as he never fails to impress. In 2018, he was the fourth highest run-scorer for the side, scoring 351 runs, but at an average of 21.93. The question is, can he become the backbone of KKR in 2019?