IPL 2018: Australia's big guns and what they possess
What's the story
Australians have enjoyed the Indian Premier League like players of no other nation. From 2008 to 2017, Aussies have left their mark in the global T20 League. Legends have graced the IPL and the current crop of Aussie players are looking to fill in the shoes. Let's have a look at five of Australia's top T20 players and what they bring to the table.
The southpaw
David Warner- Sunrisers Hyderabad
David Warner and runs go hand in hand. The southpaw has scored 500+ runs in every season since 2014. A winner of the Orange Cap on two occasions, Warner's dominance has been effective. Leader of SRH, Warner would be hoping to repeat the heroics of 2016, when he guided the team to title. An aggressive player, Warner is in perfect sync with Indian conditions.
The leader
Steve Smith- Rajasthan Royals
Last season, the Australian Test skipper led the Rising Pune Supergiant to the final. Not just that, he also scored 472 runs in 15 games. With an unorthodox batting-style, Smith has never been short of character and consistency. The best Test batsman is a handy contributor in T20 cricket too. His positive style of captaincy will help Royals to do well in IPL 11.
A Knight
Mitchell Starc- Kolkata Knight Riders
Mitchell Starc is one of the most feared bowlers in world cricket. He has all the attributes of a fast bowler and is excellent at the death. He missed the last two seasons in IPL, so 2018 edition has become vital for him. Starc will be the mainstay bowler for KKR. He has picked up 34 wickets till now at an average of 20.38.
A T20 hero
Glenn Maxwell - Delhi Daredevils
The Australian power-hitter came out of his shadows earlier this year in the Trans-Tasman T20 tri-series. He finished with 233 runs to help Aussies win the title. Playing for a new franchise this time, Maxwell will hope to repeat the 2014 heroics when he butchered all bowlers. The middle-order batsman has found a new fervour and bowlers should be wary of him.
All-round delight
Marcus Stoinis- Kings XI Punjab
Stoinis has enjoyed his role for the Australian national team in the limited overs. The all-rounder is a class act, especially with the intelligence he shows while finishing the games. He has had a very productive 2018 for the Aussies and the experience he has gained, has done him world of good. KXIP's go to player, Stoinis is the 'bull' in that unit.
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Other notable Australian delights
Pacer Pat Cummins, a prime force, will come out for the Mumbai Indians. KKR will see aggressive power hitter in Chris Lynn and Royals have the same in D'Arcy Short. Nathan Coulter-Nile will add substance to RCB and so will Andrew Tye for KXIP.