IPL 2021: Best Predicted Playing XI for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)

Kolkata Knight Riders, the two-time titleholder, is a strong team with the right mix of talent and experience. The franchise retained 17 players, released 06, and bought 08 in the recent auction. With so much to choose from, Skipper, Eoin Morgan could have a tough time selecting the final playing 11. Here’s the combination he should go with in the first encounter against SRH.

1. Shubman Gill: 

The highest scorer for KKR in the 2020 edition, the talented youngster should open the innings. He can make the most of the power play and can carry the bat through the innings. 

2. Nitish Rana: 

With a strike rate of 138 plus, Rana can hit the ball long and hard. He’s an ideal foil for Gill.

3. Rahul Tripathi: 

Rahul has made the number 03 spot his own with a fine performance in the last season. He should continue batting at the same spot to provide the required stability to the top order. 

4. Eoin Morgan: (overseas)

Skipper, Morgan has a reputation for innovation and stroke play. His presence at number 04 would help KKR pose big totals batting first and chase down any total batting second. 

5. Andre Russell: (overseas)

With 1,517 total IPL runs at a strike rate of 182.3374, the West Indian is perhaps the most destructive batsman. His form at number 05 will decide KKR’s fortunes in the upcoming season. 

6. Dinesh Karthik: 

DK brings in loads of experience into the line-up, which would be crucial in crunch situations. Plus, he can bat well with the lower order and keep wickets. That’s an added advantage.  

7. Sunil Narine:  

While Shakib Al Hasan can be considered for the role of a spin all-rounder, Narine could be a better choice for his wicket-taking abilities. He can decimate bowlers with the bat as well.   

8. Pat Cummins: (overseas)

Cummins is one of the top bowlers on the international circuit and should spearhead the KKR’s pace attack. His nagging line and length and lively pace could be difficult to handle for batsmen.  

9. Kuldeep Yadav: 

Kuldeep should be preferred over Varun Chakravarthy for his experience and skills.  

10. Shivam Mavi: 

Young Mavi can unsettle batsmen with his sheer pace, making him a wise choice. 

11. Prasidh Krishna: 

Krishna has to be the second seamer to open with Cummins. He’s pacy and accurate. 

KKR is a talented team, and we are looking forward to see who plays in the final XI in the upcoming matches.

Admin