IPL 2019: One potential Orange Cap winner from each side

#7. Kings XI Punjab - Chris Gayle

Gayle's blitzkrieg against England might be a signal of turning back the clock

The Jamaican who announced that he would retire from ODI cricket after the World Cup, seems to have turned back the clock after his terrific series against England. With 39 sixes in just 5 ODIs, Chris Gayle proved how destructive he is even at this age. A knock of 162 helped West Indies almost chase down a mammoth 418.

Gayle did perform with the bat for the first half of the tournament last year but his form faded in the later stages. But looking at the kind of form he is in, it would not be a surprise if he repeats his Orange Cap-winning performances of 2011 and 2012.

The six hitting ability which seemed to have waned a bit in the last couple of years seems to be back and so is the consistency. The typical Gayle innings, a string of dots followed by raining sixes, were on display in the home series against England and the KXIP management would expect the same from him this season.

KL Rahul, Punjab's top run-getter last season is not in great form off late and that is the only reason why Gayle is a better contender for the Orange Cap. But considering the fact that a brilliant IPL like last year might guarantee Rahul a World Cup berth, might get the best out of him.