The 13th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is round the corner and the pundits have already started analysing the teams and predicting winners. Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra is leading the chart with his sharp analysis and criticisms. Recently, Aakash Chopra picked his ideal playing xi of defending champions Mumbai Indians.
Meanwhile, Mumbai have a star-studded line-up and it is extremely hard to select the best XI. Chopra had to make some startling choices leaving out Chris Lynn, Mumbai’s new recruit. The Australian will have to warm up the benches mainly due to his poor run in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL).
Chopra leaves out Chris Lynn
The former India opener went with Quinton de Kock, Kieron Pollard, Nathan Coulter-Nile, and Trent Boult as his four overseas options. Coulter-Nile and Boult will have to bear additional responsibilities along with Jasprit Bumrah in the absence of Lasith Malinga. The highest wicket-taker in the history of IPL will miss the tournament owing to personal reasons.
Meanwhile, Aakash Chopra fielded Rohit Sharma alongside de Kock as his opener. He recently predicted that if Rohit opens the batting, he will score at least 500 runs in IPL 2020. Ishan Kishan and ever-consistent Surya Kumar Yadav will follow the pack.
The Pandya brothers – Hardik and Krunal will partner Pollard in the middle-order, who will also have a crucial role to play with the ball. Australian speedster Nathan Coulter-Nile can also chip in with the bat whenever needed providing depth in the batting.
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Rahul Chahar, who impressed one and all in the last season is the only regular spinner in the squad. Krunal Pandya is expected to join him in the middle overs. It looks like an interesting team which has all the bases covered as Mumbai begin the hunt for their fifth title.
Mumbai Indians will play their IPL 2020 opener against Chennai Super Kings on September 19 at the Dubai International Stadium.
Ideal Mumbai Indians playing XI of Aakash Chopra
Rohit Sharma (c), Quinton de Kock, Ishan Kishan, Surya Kumar Yadav, Kieron Pollard, Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Jasprit Bumrah, Rahul Chahar, Trent Boult
Agree? Disagree? @ESPNcricinfo #IPL #IdealPlayingXI pic.twitter.com/AH7oGAob3F
— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) September 15, 2020
