The buzz around the 13th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is on the fifth peddle. The teams are on the final phase of their preparation with the mega season commencing from 19th September. Ahead of the start, former Kolkata Knight Riders player Brad Hogg has picked four teams who can make it IPL 2020 playoffs.
With the tournament round the corner, the pundits have already started predicting the winners and franchises who can make it to top four. Hogg also joined the bandwagon and shared his thoughts. The former Australia cricketer believes with the absence of Suresh Raina and Harbhajan Singh, Chennai Super Kings might find things difficult this season.
Brad Hogg is of the opinion that Chennai will compete with Delhi Capitals for the fourth spot. He also added that if Kagiso Rabada remains fit for the entire season, then the Capitals have a good chance in IPL 2020.
Hogg picks four teams to qualify for IPL 2020 playoffs
”If you look at the teams now, CSK has lost two quality players. Raina might get back there but it might be a liitle bit too late. So, CSK have got their problems with their older brigade, their most experienced campaigners. I think it leaves a hole for them.” Brad Hogg said on his official Youtube channel.
”They are going to be pushing to get into the No.4 spot. It is either going to be CSK at No.4 or the Delhi Capitals. They don’t have any injury and if Rabada plays the whole tournament, they have a big chance of getting into the top four.” he added.
Also read: IPL 2020: 5 Kings XI Punjab Players To Watch Out For This Season
Brad Hogg went with his former franchise Kolkata Knight Riders for the third spot while he chose Royal Challengers Bangalore for the second spot. The former spinner believes the presence of Sunil Narine and Andre Russell can turn out to a game-changer for Kolkata.
In conclusion, Hogg went with the defending champions Mumbai Indians to once again make it to the playoffs. The cricketer-turned-commentator believes Mumbai have all their bases covered and will finish the league stage on the top.
“Mumbai Indians at No.1. They have got all bases covered. They have got elegant batsmen at the top who can bat through the innings. They have the power hitters in Hardik Pandya, Pollard and Krunal Pandya in the middle and those players are also quality all-rounders who can bowl a few overs as well.
And then when you look at their bowling lineup, they have got their spin and pace covered and they have good depth in their squad,” he added.
