IPL Rest of the World XI
Chris Gayle
3207 runs at a strike-rate of nearly 153. Five centuries with a top score of 175* and eighteen half centuries - why will anyone not have Chris Gayle opening the innings for ROW XI?
Brendon McCullum (WK)
The recently-retired New Zealand star took the tournament by storm when he unleashed an unbeaten 158-run knock in the opening game of the inaugural edition of the IPL and there’s been no looking back for him since then. The majority of his 2135 runs have come while playing for the Kolkata Knight Riders, however some of his finest performances have come while opening for Chennai Super Kings.
Shaun Marsh
After a breakthrough first couple of seasons, Marsh became less of a constant in the Kings XI Punjab line-up, more due to his injuries and overseas player status than anything else. But in the 62 games that he has played in, he’s had a tremendous impact with the bat, scoring over 2213 runs at an average of 41.
AB de Villiers (Captain)
The Superman bats at the top of the order. The Superman scores runs at a rate of nearly 150 per 100 deliveries. The Superman can keep and field like a livewire. He has 2890 runs at an average of nearly 40. A utility player who can take the opposition down singlehandedly, ABD is the rightful Captain of the ROW XI.
Shane Watson
Shane Watson was one of the main reasons why inspite of not having big names, Rajasthan Royals became a force to be reckoned with in the IPL. Watson’s MVP status in the team comes from the fact that he can win games with either the bat (2472 runs at a strike-rate of 142) or the ball (70-wickets at an average of 27.55). And at times when he ends up doing both, it’s troubled times for the opposition.
Dwayne Bravo
The Champion lies pretty, third in the highest wicket-takers list with 115 wickets at an exceptional average of 22.14. While his economy might be on the higher side because he bowls mostly in the death, he makes up for it with his quick wicket taking abilities. The explosive batting skills are sure to come handy while batting lower down.
Kieron Pollard
While many will remember Pollard for his antics on the field, including the famous duel with Mitchell Starc of Australia, the West Indian all-rounder has some great numbers supporting his inclusion in this XI. In 101 games, Pollard has 56 wickets to go with the 1873 runs he has scored for the Mumbai Indians at a strike-rate of nearly 150.
Albie Morkel
A cricketer in the mould of Lance Klusener, Morkel can play multiple roles for his team. He can be the floater, batting up the order in order to score quick runs, or be the finisher – winning the match with the equation at 18 from 7 deliveries. But it is with the ball in hand that he provides the most value and his 85 IPL wickets are a testament to that.
Lasith Malinga
Recently injured, the right-arm fast bowler from Sri Lanka showed the world why good death bowling is worth its weight in gold in T20s. The highest wicket-taker in the IPL, Malinga has 143 wickets to his name at an average of 17.80 and an economy of 6.67. The spells also include a rare five-for and as many as four 4-wicket hauls.
Sunil Narine
Not having the mystery spinner in the ranks is a big mistake, a mistake that no ROW XI should commit in the IPL. From Narine who? Sunil Narine became one of the most feared names in the opposition team sheets. An arsenal of variations, and great control over the pitch of the delivery saw Narine pick up 80 wickets in 61 games. His performances in 2012 and 2014 earned his side the Championship.
Dale Steyn
Arguably the world’s best out and out pace bowler has 92 victims to his name in India’s marquee competition. He bowls with ferocity and can do more than a good job with the new ball. Although his form has dipped in recent years, he still remains one of the finest bowlers to have donned IPL colours.
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