IPL 2019: Predicting RCB’s best playing XI

Spinner - Yuzvendra Chahal

Yuzvendra Chahal

This is really a no-brainer. Yuzvendra Chahal has been RCB’s most consistent bowler since his arrival at the franchise a couple of years ago. Kohli and co. will rely heavily on his wicket-taking abilities and he will have a huge role to play in RCB’s success this season.

Pace bowlers - Nathan Coulter-Nile, Tim Southee, Umesh Yadav and Mohammed Siraj/Kulwant Khejroliya

Umesh Yadav

There’s no doubt in anyone’s mind that Royal Challengers Bangalore have had one of the worst bowling attacks in IPL history, but who can really blame them since they play half their matches at the Chinnaswamy stadium which is often known as a batsman’s paradise.

Therefore, a smart decision would be to go for Australia quick Nathan Coulter-Nile and experienced Kiwi bowler Tim Southee. Both of them not only bring a lot of experience, but they will also help enhance RCB’s death bowling which has been a huge disappointment for them in recent years. The two can form a formidable duo and help RCB on their way to their first IPL title.

As far as Indian bowling options are concerned, Umesh Yadav was RCB’s leading wicket-taker last year and it would make perfect sense to include him in the playing XI. However, RCB will try to get through his (Umesh Yadav) overs quickly instead of using him in the death overs. Another Indian quick that could make the list is Mohammed Siraj.

To be honest, it will a close choice between Siraj and Kulwant Khejroliya. Khejroliya has been in good form in the domestic circuit and they (RCB) will expect him to continue that form in the IPL. Either bowler (Siraj or Khejroliya) would make a valuable addition to the playing XI and they may often swap places with each other in the squad.