IPL 2019: One major area of concern for each team ahead of the tournament

Rajasthan Royals - Availability of players

The absence of major overseas players might leave RR at a state of disadvantage

The winners of the inaugural season, Rajasthan Royals finished fourth in the tournament last year in the absence of their first choice captain. However, Smith is all set to be back after serving a one-year ban. After repeated failures of Darcy Short, Buttler was sent out to open and that turned out to be a masterstroke as Buttler won them numerous games almost single-handedly. Stokes found form with the ball in the latter half of the tournament. Jofra Archer became the impact player they needed, providing breakthroughs at all stages of the game.

All these four players are also integral parts of the world cup squads of their respective nations and hence are likely to miss a major part of the latter half of the tournament, which will leave RR at a state of disadvantage. Even the likes of Oshane Thomas might miss a part of the season. RR will be the most affected team due to player unavailability for the world cup as all their first choice overseas players will miss a crucial part of the tournament.

RR will, however, be delighted seeing the batting prowess of Perth Scorchers' Ashton Turner, whom they bought in the recent auctions.