IPL 2014: Royal Challengers Bangalore's ideal playing XI

BANGALORE, INDIA - OCTOBER 3:  Royal Challengers Bangalore batsman Chris Gayle walks back to the pavillion after being declared out for 86 runs off just 46 balls during the Champions League Twenty20 Group B match between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Somerset at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on October 3, 2011 in Bangalore, India.  (Photo by Vijayanand Gupta/Hindustan Times via Getty Images)

6) Vijay Zol: India’s U-19 captain has already proved his mettle in domestic cricket and in the U-19 Asia Cup. Zol would now like to replicate the success of his RCB skipper, Virat Kohli, who too joined the team as an uncapped 19-year old. Amidst all the big-hitters in the line-up, Vijay Zol provides the required stability, and comes across as a promising talent.

7) Albie Morkel: RCB’s quest for a fast bowling all-rounder ends here, as Morkel fits in the role quite easily. He is excellent with the new ball and will look to boost Bangalore’s bowling line-up. Albie can also score quick runs with the bat, and is the best bet for the No.7 position.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 31:  Mitchell Starc of Australia celebrates taking the wicket of Luke Wright of England during game two of the International Twenty20 series between Australia and England at Melbourne Cricket Ground on January 31, 2014 in Melbourne, Australia.  (Photo by Robert Prezioso/Getty Images)

Mitchell Starc – Answer to RCB’s bowling woes

8) Mitchell Starc: The fiery pacer from Australia might just be the solution to RCB’s bowling woes. He will add the much needed fire to RCB’s bowling, and his brutal pace and swing will be very crucial. Although Rampaul is the other fast bowling overseas option, Bangalore would like to test Starc, who looks like a great prospect for a frontline bowler.

9) Shadab Jakati: When it comes to spin bowling, Jakati has already done well for CSK in the IPL previously. RCB would be hoping to extract the same kind of form from this young Indian uncapped player this season.

10) Varun Aaron: One of the fastest Indian bowlers at present, Varun Aaron offers sheer pace to the bowling attack. He could do well in tandem with Starc, and RCB would look up to him for the early breakthrough. If only he stays away from injuries, Aaron will be a great value addition to the attack.

11) Ashok Dinda: Although Dinda got mauled by Gayle last season, playing for a beleaguered Pune Warriors India, he will be happy this time around to be playing for the same team as Chris Gayle. With Dinda, RCB now have some depth in terms of bowling options, and would seek to maximize the benefits from the same. Further, if the IPL is moved to South Africa, Dinda and Aaron would be the happiest.

Can RCB live up to all the hype and expectations? Bring on the Gangnam!

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