IPL 2019: KXIP's strongest playing XI for their first game against RR

Middle Order - Mayank Agarwal, Karun Nair, and Mandeep Singh

Mayank Agarwal

The KXIP middle order let them down big time last season and they will want to redeem themselves this time around. The players aren't the same as what they were before and Mayank Agarwal especially is on fire right now. He was delightful to watch in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and will settle into the number 3 spot.

Karun Nair will consider himself unlucky as, despite his consistency, he continues to be on the bench as far as the Indian team is concerned. He is a beautiful player to watch and will fit in perfectly at number 4 for the team. He can play the anchoring role and despite a sub-par last season, he has what it takes to make a lot of runs this season.

Mandeep Singh was traded to Punjab by RCB in return for Marcus Stoinis and the batsman will want to excel for his new side. He hasn't been in great form ahead of this season but made a couple of vital contributions for RCB last season. The underrated batsman can bat anywhere in the middle order and will most likely be forced to number 6 due to Nicholas Pooran's presence. He can bowl some medium pace if required.