IPL 2020: 3 things Kings XI Punjab must do to have a shot at winning the trophy

#2 The KL Rahul-Chris Gayle show

KL Rahul

Until last year, KL Rahul was known as a highly talented strokemaker. However, following his amazing exploits in international cricket over the last few months, he returns to IPL not only with his reputation enhanced, but also as captain of the side.

Rahul can play some unbelievable strokes in the format, and is a genuine match-winner. KXIP would want him to carry his international form into the IPL as well. Apart from his good recent performances, Rahul has been excellent in the last two IPL seasons as well.

In 2018, he smashed 659 in 14 games at a strike rate of 158.41 with six fifties. Last year, he amassed 593 runs at a strike rate of 135.38 with one hundred and six half-centuries. Overall too, Rahul has a fantastic IPL record - 1,977 runs at a strike rate of 138.15 and an average of 42.06.

Chris Gayle

Rahul can form a great opening partnership with 40-year-old Chris Gayle at the top of the order. While not as consistent as he was at his prime, the 'Universe Boss' keeps producing scintillating knocks to remind everyone of his prowess. As recently as last month, he blasted 60 from 24 balls for Chattogram Challengers in the second qualifier of the Bangladesh Premier League.

Gayle has made an impact in the last two IPL seasons as well. In 2018, he contributed 368 runs in 11 matches at a strike rate of 146.03 with one hundred and three fifties. Last year, he smashed 490 runs in 13 games at a strike rate of 153.60 with a best of 99 not out. In tandem, Rahul and Gayle can be double trouble, like fire and ice.