With the IPL (Indian Premier League) season upon us, it’s time to talk about who we’re expecting to make the most impact out on the pitch. Last year’s leaderboards are up, and it’s clear who the front runners are heading into 2020.
Today we’ll look at the top batter striding out with a head start, which fast bowler we expect to carry his momentum, and the rising star set to make an even bigger name for himself after a great last season. First up is the famous Caribbean powerhouse and IPL veteran Andre Russell.
#1 – Andre Russell
Andre Russell first graced the IPL pitch almost a decade ago in 2012. To read his resumé, Russel’s primarily known as an all-rounder, with both his batting and bowling style being right hand dominant. Yet, despite his all-round reputation, the IPL veteran finished the 2019 season with the most sixes at 52, while also securing the top strike rate at 204.81. As a result of his achievements, Russell currently holds two out of five key batting leaders awards, as well as the most player points at a total of 369.
According to casinomarket.com, indian online casinos and cricket betting sites are becoming increasingly popular. So, many bookmakers are now offering more markets, meaning you could potentially back Russell’s batting outcomes as well as his matches. It’s also worth noting that he finished last year’s season with a total of 28 runs, which is something else to keep in mind when betting on Kolkata Knight Riders’ MVP.
#2 – Anukul Roy
Next at the wicket, we have Mumbai Indians’ Anukul Roy. Roy really made 2019 his year with a four-fer and five-wicket haul in the ICC U19 World Cup. At only 20, he’s the owner of 30 first-class wickets and is looking to make the IPL his big platform to shine. He’s already become a fan favourite for pushing the boundaries of Indian fast bowling.
Roy took two out of five Bowling Leaders positions at the end of last season. He secured the Best Bowling Average with an impressive 11.00, and also took Best Economy at 5.50. So, it should come as no surprise that his team, Mumbai Indians, scored the highest on the 2019 Bowling Points Table. It’s worth keeping this in mind if you’re planning to bet on bowling markets or the team this year.
#3 – Mayank Agarwal
Who could forget 2019’s breakout batsman Mayank Agarwal? The right-hander put on a spectacular performance at last year’s ICC Cricket World Cup, playing a pivotal role in helping India secure their debut Test series win in Australia. His double-hundred and 67.07 average were enough to propel Agarwal out of the shadows of his peers and into the limelight of international test cricket.
Formerly known as an overs specialist, Agarwal has been encouraged to develop his technique and approach to match the longer game. So, we’ll be expecting to see even more improvements in his batting prowess while representing Kings XI Punjab. Argawal will be one to watch as you place your bets through the season.
Every year the IPL brings out the best in international T20 talent. Keep an eye on the veterans making a comeback, the current leaderboard finishers, and the ever-present emerging stars striding out for their first season.