IPL 2018: 4 batsmen who can fulfil opening duties for KKR

This year has been a real nightmare for KKR. From Chris Lynn's shoulder injury to Mitchell Starc's latest woes, KKR have experienced everything. However, Lynn's expected return has provided them with something to cheer for.

KKR have quite a few players in their squad who can open the innings in the upcoming edition of the IPL. Thus, let us have a look at four potential candidates from the KKR squad who can open the innings:

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#4 Ishank Jaggi

Ishank Jaggi had a fantastic SMAT this year

A domestic prodigy, Ishank Jaggi is one of the most underrated batsmen in the Indian circuit. Ishank's credentials came to the fore during the 2016-17 Ranji season where he finished as the seventh highest run-scorer with 890 runs to his name. His exceptional performances in the Ranji season helped him get drafted into the 2017 auction. Eventually, he was bought by KKR for the 2017 edition of IPL.

Jaggi plays at the No. 3 spot for his home team Jharkhand. However, this year, he might get a chance to open the innings for Kolkata Knight Riders. Ishank had an exceptional season this time around. In Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2018, he notched up 213 runs at a jaw-dropping average of 106.5 and an astonishing strike-rate of 167.71. His fabulous performances in SMAT 2018 bagged him an INR 20 Lakh deal with KKR.

T20 Numbers - Matches: 58 | Runs: 1535 | Avg: 35.69 | S/R: 121.63

#3 Shubman Gill

Shubman Gill will be one to watch out for

Shubman Gill shot to fame with his extraordinary performances in the recent U-19 World Cup where he scored 418 runs at an average of 104.5. Gill played a vital role in India U-19 team's road to a record fourth title. His performances didn't go unnoticed as he was a hot potato in the 2018 IPL Player Auctions. He bagged a 1.8 Crore deal with KKR for the upcoming edition of the IPL.

His sheer talent makes him an ideal choice for the opening slot. Considering Chris Lynn's injury concerns, KKR would like to chop and change the opening slot by handing the responsibilities to Gill as well.

T20 Numbers - Yet to play a T20 match

#2 Chris Lynn

Lynn is expected to be fit for IPL

A hard-hitting prospect from Australia, Chris Lynn is one of the most dangerous batsmen in the Australian circuit. His ability to take on even the best of bowlers is a big plus.

However, constant injuries have stalled his progress but he is expected to be fit for KKR's opening match against RCB.

Lynn is most likely to open the innings for KKR provided he is fit to play. Lynn had a fantastic BBL this year with Brisbane Heat. In BBL 2017-18, Lynn scored 148 runs at an excellent average of 37 and a jaw-dropping average of 162.64.

T20 Numbers - Matches: 102 | Runs: 2890 | Avg: 36.12 | S/R: 148.35

#1 Robin Uthappa

Uthappa will be crucial for KKR this year

The right-handed batsman from Karnataka, Robin Uthappa has been a constant figure in the KKR squad as an opener for the last few seasons. Robin has opened for KKR in the past and would like to repeat the same in the upcoming edition of the IPL.

Having played so much IPL and domestic cricket, Uthappa is a decent fit for the opening spot. In addition to that, his exquisite timing and freestyle batting make him the perfect candidate.

Currently, Uthappa is the wicket-keeper with the most number of runs in the IPL. Without Gambhir this time around, the onus would be on Uthappa to lead the top order.

T20 Numbers - Matches: 216 | Runs: 5547 | Avg: 29.34 | S/R: 134.70