The cricket season is upon us once more, heralding the return of the most anticipated event in the sport. The renowned Indian Premier League (IPL) kicked off its 18th edition on Saturday at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata, where the reigning champions, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), faced defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). This year’s tournament has witnessed unparalleled batting dominance, with increased run rates, a multitude of fours and sixes, successful chases of 250-plus totals, and chaotic performances during powerplay and death overs!
What to Expect from IPL 2025?
What can fans look forward to in IPL 2025? Will Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) soar to the title this season? Can Mumbai Indians (MI) make a notable comeback and are the Capitals the unexpected contenders? How are Chennai Super Kings (CSK) faring and what position do Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Titans find themselves in this year?
SRH Poised for Success
SRH appears well-equipped to dominate the competition this season with their powerful batting lineup. Last year’s standout opening partnership of Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma amassed 599 runs at an impressive strike rate of 220, including three century partnerships. Heinrich Klaasen adds dynamism at the end of the innings, boasting a scoring rate of 238 in the last four overs last season.
On the bowling side, Mohammed Shami exhibited incredible form from 2019 to 2023, leading the wicket-taking charts consistently. He will be joined by Pat Cummins and Harshal Patel, the latter being last season’s Purple Cap holder, forming a formidable pace trio for SRH. Adam Zampa is expected to spearhead the spin attack.
Is This MI’s Year to Shine?
MI has seen a transformation since their consecutive triumphs in 2019 and 2020, struggling in recent seasons with only one playoff appearance in the last four years. They have revamped their roster, blending seasoned players with fresh talent, becoming potential contenders this season. The batting lineup looks potent, highlighted by a revitalized Rohit Sharma and the dynamic Ryan Rickelton at the top, complemented by a strong middle order featuring Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Hardik Pandya.
Jasprit Bumrah, alongside Trent Boult, will once again spearhead the bowling attack, while Mitchell Santner brings his T20 expertise to the middle overs. However, MI’s concern lies with Bumrah’s fitness, as he is expected to miss the first matches; others will need to rise to the occasion in his absence.
KKR’s Challenges Ahead
KKR currently lacks the explosive batting and bowling capabilities that characterized their previous seasons. The absence of standout player Phil Salt and their captain Shreyas Iyer, an exceptional white-ball performer, poses significant challenges. Moreover, Ajinkya Rahane and Manish Pandey could be liabilities in the middle order. KKR will also miss Mitchell Starc, a key player in their previous successes.
Can Delhi Capitals Surpass Expectations?
The Delhi Capitals boast a formidable roster, with powerful hitters and skilled bowlers. Led by a relieved KL Rahul, who might adopt a more aggressive playing style, the batting lineup includes Jake Fraser-McGurk, historically strong top scorers like Faf du Plessis and Tristan Stubbs. The bowling attack features Mitchell Starc and T Natarajan, with spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel rounding out a potent squad.
Other teams like Rajasthan Royals, Chennai Super Kings, and Punjab Kings have their own strengths and weaknesses heading into the tournament. The Royals are eyeing a return to the playoffs, while CSK’s aging roster might hinder performance this season. The Punjab Kings are banking on new leadership but might lack powerhouse batting. Royal Challengers Bengaluru face concerns with their top-heavy lineup, and Lucknow Super Giants need to bolster their fast-bowling reserves.
Based on the current team compositions and the performance of each squad’s best players, Sunrisers Hyderabad appear poised for a playoff appearance, alongside Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals, and Mumbai Indians as possible contenders for the top four spots.
