IPL 2020 Team Prediction: Possible Playing XI of Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) Team in IPL 13

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Updated: February 6, 2020
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IPL 2020: Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) Predicted Playing XI in IPL 13

Despite boasting of a formidable outfit with world-class players, Kings XI Punjab hasn’t been able to win the IPL trophy even once. They ended up as the runners-up in 2014 and since then, their performance has been mediocre. This is the reason that Kings XI Punjab will enter IPL 2020 with the sole aim of laying their hands on the coveted IPL trophy.

This year, however, it seems likely that Kings XI Punjab will make it big as their coach Anil Kumble possesses the talent to get the best out of the players. The former Indian head coach starred in the recently held auctions and made the franchise buy some intelligent players. Kings XI Punjab also announced KL Rahul as their new leader and brought back their star player Glenn Maxwell. So, let’s have a look at the strongest possible 11 for Kings XI Punjab.

KL Rahul and Chris Gayle as Openers

Since the last two IPL seasons, the left-right combination of Rahul and Gayle have done wonders. Rahul has been the leading and most explosive batsmen of the Punjab-based franchise. However, Rahul will face a new challenge this year as he has to lead the team. This may come as a burden and can hamper his free-playing style. On the other hand, Gayle has not been at his very best last year. He got the starts but didn’t capitalize on them. So, 2020 may be the year when Gayle will once again come into his own.

Kings XI Punjab has a settled middle order with formidable batsmen

To be precise, Mayank Agarwal ruled the roost this year in Indian Test Cricket. He solidified his position in the Indian test squad with some good knocks. However, this talented Karnataka batsman would like to see his name feature in India’s ODI team. And for that to happen, he has to play some really good cricket in IPL this year.

On the other hand, the former skipper of Delhi Capitals, Karun Nair, has been not utilized properly by the Kings XI Punjab team management. Last year, it was quite evident that the team management could not decide on his batting position. Nair is vastly talented and has the ability to up the ante at any moment. He also possesses the ability to strike the ball out of the park which is clearly a big asset.

Interestingly, Glenn Maxwell is the best batsman to bat at number 5 for the Kings XI Punjab. The former player of the Delhi Capitals was at his best in 2014 when he was judged the impact player of the season. He took his team to the finals but eventually Kings XI Punjab lost to KKR. He also missed the previous season owing to the preparations for the 2019 world cup. However, 2020 may be his year and there is no doubting his explosive abilities.

All-rounders of Kings XI Punjab in the form of Jimmy Neesham and Gowtham

Jimmy Neesham, the Kiwi all-rounder, will make his return to the IPL this year. Though he has been a part of many teams, he hasn’t got the success that a player of his stature deserves. Thus, he will be eager to make his mark in the IPL by featuring for the Kings XI Punjab. He can strike big and is a crucial component of Kings XI Punjab’s pace battery. Hence, it is only fair to expect him to shine in 2020.

On the other hand, KC Gowtham will lead the team’s spin attack. He was the breakout star of IPL 2018. However, he experienced a mediocre 2019 season which led Rajasthan Royals to replace him. This former Rajasthan player has the experience and the ability to fox opposition batsmen. Moreover, with the guidance of Kumble, it is only fair to expect that Gowtham will put up some stellar performances on board for the Kings XI Punjab.

Kings XI Punjab has a formidable Pace Battery

To be fair, the pace bowling unit of the Kings XI Punjab has some big names. Mohammed Shami will lead the fast bowling attack for the Kings XI Punjab. This also comprises of Sheldon Cottrell and Arshdeep Singh. Shami has been the bowler to watch, in both the longer and shorter formats for India.

On the other hand, Cottrell has developed himself into an intelligent pace bowler due to which cricket legends from across the world have praised him. Murugan Ashwin will head the leg-spinning unit for the Kings XI Punjab. He has a good experience of playing IPL matches and would be looking forward to team up with Gowtham. Interestingly, Ishan Porel will be the bowler to watch out for this year. He is a promising talent and has already put in some decent performances at the U-19 level. It is a toss-up between Porel and Arshdeep Singh for the third seamer’s slot.

Predicted Playing XI of KXIP in IPL 2020

KL Rahul (C&WK), Mayank Agarwal, Karun Nair, Glenn Maxwell, Nicholas Pooran (WK), Mandeep Singh, Krishnappa Gowtham, Mohammed Shami, Sheldon Cottrell, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Ishan Porel/ Murugan Ashwin.

It is the Probable XI of KXIP from our side, let’s comment down your favorite Probable XI.