IPL 2019: Opinion - 3 star overseas players who do not deserve a place in the playing XI

IPL is one of the most competitive tournaments in the world. Players from all around the world light up the stage with some sparkling performances. International, as well as domestic players, give their best to help their teams win the tournament. The overseas players, in particular, are in demand in the IPL.

And because only 4 overseas players are allowed in the playing XI, the responsibility on these international stars is immense. Also, because of the fact that stakes are very high in the IPL, overseas players have to perform as per their reputation. While good performances can be rewarding, failures can deny them an IPL contract next season. The performances of overseas players have a huge bearing on their team's chances in the tournament.

This year, there have been some big names who haven't done justice to their overseas recruit status. Big things were expected from these players, but unfortunately, they have let their teams down so far. Here are 3 overseas players who have been given way too many chances and they do not deserve to be a part of their respective team's playing XI.

#3 Moeen Ali

Time is running out for Ali

The poor form of overseas players has been a big reason for Royal Challengers Bangalore's dismal show this IPL. Apart from Ab de Villiers, all other foreign players' contributions have been insignificant. One of those players is Moeen Ali. The England all-rounder has scored just 74 runs at a below-par average of 18.50 in the 6 matches that he has played so far.

A reason for these poor returns can be the never-ending experimentations with Ali's batting position. He has opened the innings, played in the middle order as well as in the lower middle-order. Ali's batting position has become a matter of debate for RCB.

His bowling hasn't been great either. The 31-year-old has picked up just 2 wickets so far and the RCB skipper has shown reluctance in using Moeen Ali with the ball.

#2 Ben Stokes

Stokes hasn't been able to score quick runs

Rajasthan Royals were expecting big things from Ben Stokes in IPL 2019. The Englishman is perhaps one of the best all-rounders in world cricket and has the X-factor that can change the complexion of a match.

Unfortunately, Stokes has failed to live up to expectations. Stokes has played all the six matches that his team Rajasthan Royals has played so far and scored just 104 runs. He hasn't been able to score quick runs in the death overs. However, it's his bowling that has been a major let down.

Even though the 27-year-old has taken 6 wickets in 6 matches he has been extremely expensive giving away runs at a poor economy of 11.22. Stokes has not been able to win big moments for his side and it has cost the Royals a couple of matches.

With the likes of Ashton Turner and Liam Livingstone in the side, it will be interesting to see for how long the Royals will persist with Stokes.

#1 Shane Watson

How long will CSK persist with Watson?

One of the biggest reasons for Chennai Super Kings's successful IPL comeback last year was the scintillating form of the team's openers. Shane Watson and Ambati Rayudu, and later Faf du Plessis, gave some rollicking starts to the Super Kings.

However, things haven't been great for CSK's openers this year. While Rayudu has been shifted to the middle order, Watson has struggled to get going. Interestingly, Watson came into the tournament at the back of a fabulous PSL but for some reason, he has looked out of sorts.

The Australian has a tally of 105 runs in 7 matches at an underwhelming average of 15 and a low strike-rate of 114.13. He hasn't been used with the ball at all by MS Dhoni. Even though Shane Watson has the ability to make a comeback by scoring big runs, CSK might consider dropping him for Murali Vijay.