IPL 2019: The ideal XI that Kings XI Punjab should aim for after the auction

Kings XI Punjab's performance last season was disappointing as they finished at the bottom of the table for yet another season. However, KXIP were excellent in the first half of the previous season before they collapsed in the second part of the season.

That was mainly because of their struggles in the middle-order and some debatable decisions taken by captain Ashwin. However, KXIP have now shuffled their think tank and they would start afresh next season. Accordingly, they have let go of a number of players and now have the maximum purse amongst the teams.

They have secured the services of local lad Mandeep Singh in the trading season and KXIP have a number of issues to be addressed in the auction. Hence, it would be interesting to watch their performance in the upcoming auctions.

On that note, we have compiled a well-balanced XI which could help the Punjab team to secure their maiden IPL trophy.

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Openers: KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal

KL Rahul was Punjab's best performer last season. His performance impacted the team in almost every match and will hence be KXIP's go-to man next season too. He donned the wicketkeeper's gloves last season and was fairly good with the job. Although KXIP would think of relieving KL of his wicketkeeping duties, it would be best for the balance of the team if KL continues behind the wickets. A few good replacements in Naman Ojha or Saha would be sufficient.

Mayank Agarwal has not been a good IPL performer so far. His attacking instincts suit well to the format and he must be given more chances for KXIP to reap the benefits. KXIP might be tempted to go with Gayle at the top but considering their weak middle-order and Gayle's inconsistent form, an overseas option must be saved down the order.

Middle-Order: Karun Nair, David Miller, and Mandeep Singh

Karun and Miller should play at No.3 and No.4 respectively

KXIP's struggles last season was mainly because of their middle-order which was not able to capitalize on the starts provided by their openers. Hence, there were a lot of changes happening which was frequently affecting the balance of the squad.

Karun Nair and David Miller are good players in this format and they have to play at No. 3 and No. 4 respectively next season. While Karun Nair can fulfil the role of an anchor within the team, David Miller's performance will be vital for KXIP's chances next season.

Mandeep Singh has come back to his home side and he will probably play at No.5 in the team. He was decent with RCB at this position and he will continue at this position.

KXIP need to buy a few backups for the middle-order with plenty of options such as Shimron Hetymer, Nicholas Pooran and Hanuma Vihari available in the auctions.

All-Rounders: Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, and Sam Curran

Sam Curran could be the missing piece of the puzzle for KXIP

Axar Patel was released by KXIP but he will most likely be a part of the squad again. He is a useful player and his presence could be important for the team's balance.

Ashwin is the captain of the team and he will be the team's lead spinner. However, Ashwin has graduated into a good batsman and should start contributing more to the team with his bat. It would not be a surprise if he plays much higher in the batting order next season.

Sam Curran is a quality cricketer with his wily left-arm seam bowling and useful batting skills down the order. KXIP's batting needs more death and Sam Curran could offer it at No. 8.He can form a good bowling partnership with Tye and could be a good buy for KXIP.

Bowlers: Andrew Tye, Mohammed Shami, and Mujeeb-Ur-Rahman

Shami will be a good addition to KXIP

Andrew Tye and Mujeeb were the stand-out bowlers for KXIP last season and they will continue in the squad in the upcoming season too. Tye's availability is a concern and a few backups like Dale Steyn or Chris Jordan would be beneficial to the team.

KXIP lacked a good domestic seamer last season with both Mohit Sharma and Sran leaking a lot of runs. Ankit Rajpoot was very good but his consistency is still a doubt. Hence, Shami would be a good option for KXIP as he is an experienced cricketer. He is an India regular and will be an asset to the team.