IPL 2019: The most important player for each team who will determine their success

8) Kolkata Knight Riders: Sunil Narine

Narine's

all-round

contributions will be key for KKR

The Knight Riders rejuvenated Narine's batting exploits in 2018 by allowing him to open the innings. And boy did he respond. 357 runs at a strike rate of 189.89.

While he may have only averaged 22, the benefit of a quick start overrides everything else. With even more big hitters in the team like Andre Russel and Chris Lynn, KKR wouldn't mind losing an early wicket to take the pressure off those to follow. And it's even better for Narine, who walks in with zero expectations. If he doesn't do well, he's just a bowler, but when he does, it's a bonus.

Narine's bowling is also crucial for KKR, as has been the case for many years. In 2018, he picked 17 wickets from 16 games at an economy rate of 7.65. Such is the impact of his all-around game that KKR's success depends on his performances.

KKR have got the best out of Narine the batsman