The Bengaluru franchise, perennial bridesmaids in the chase for the elusive Indian T20 League trophy, are gearing up to rewrite their story in the 2024 season. With a tactical overhaul in their bowling department at the 2024 auction, Bengaluru has assembled a squad that will aim to take the league by storm. Alzarri Joseph, the headline act bought for a hefty price at the 2024 auction, adds a lethal edge to their bowling. Lockie Ferguson, another speed merchant, joined the ranks.
Bengaluru also secured the services of England all-rounder Tom Curran, and young talents Yash Dayal, Swapnil Singh, and Saurav Chauhan. This mix of proven international stars and emerging talents could well be the missing puzzle piece for Bengaluru, as they aim to ditch the 'always the bridesmaid' tag and clinch the title that has eluded them.
At FanCraze, we take a look at Bengaluru’s probable playing XI for the 2024 edition:
Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli’s name is synonymous with Bengaluru. The leading run-scorer in the tournament’s history, including 639 runs in the 2023 season shows his consistency and class. Kohli's leadership on the field, even without the captain's band, inspires both fans and teammates. His determination to help Bengaluru to its first title will be more than ever.
Faf du Plessis (C)
As captain, Faf du Plessis brings a wealth of experience and formidable batting skills, evident from his 730 runs last season. His sharp tactics and ability to marshal his troops, while leading from the front with the bat, sets a high benchmark for performance. Faf's aggressive yet calculated approach at the crease will be crucial for Bengaluru's quest for the trophy.
Rajat Patidar
After missing the previous season due to injury, Patidar's comeback is highly anticipated. His robust performance in the domestic circuit, showcases his readiness to take on the upcoming challenge. Patidar's role will be to provide stability and firepower at the top, making the most of his form and potential.
Glenn Maxwell
Known for his dynamic batting and handy off-spin, Maxwell's all-round capabilities make him invaluable. His remarkable year, highlighted by a vital role in Australia's World Cup win, shows his match-winning potential. Maxwell's ability to turn games around in both departments will be key for Bengaluru.
Cameron Green
Traded from MI, Green's role as a finisher and a pace option adds depth to the squad. His impressive performances, including a maiden Indian T20 League century last year proved his ability to take on the best under pressure. Green's threat with both bat and ball offers Bengaluruflexibility and a powerful middle to lower-order option.
Dinesh Karthik (WK)
Despite a lackluster 2023, Karthik's known for his finishing abilities. His experience and knack for playing crucial innings in tight situations have been proven time and again. Bengaluru will bank on him to rediscover his form and provide the late innings thrust.
Mahipal Lomror
Mahipal Lomror will aim to translate his domestic form, including a strong showing in the SMAT, to the Indian T20 League stage. Known for his clean striking and ability to accelerate, he has the potential to be a game-changer for Bengaluru in the lower-middle order.
Alzarri Joseph/ Lockie Ferguson/ Tom Curran
With recent form that includes a successful series against England, Joseph is expected to spearhead the pace attack. His speed and ability to extract bounce make him a threat in any conditions, and Bengaluru will look to him for early wickets and tight death overs.
Lockie Ferguson offers express pace and significant international experience. His ability to bowl fast and accurately in all phases of the game provides Bengaluru with a high-quality option should the need arise.
Tom Curran is known for his versatility as he can contribute with both bat and ball. His knack for picking up key wickets and scoring runs in crucial moments adds depth to Bengaluru's squad.
Karn Sharma/ Mayank Dagar
Karn Sharma brings experience to the spin department. With a knack for picking up crucial wickets and controlling the flow of runs, his role will be to anchor the middle overs alongside Maxwell. Sharma's Indian T20 League and domestic experience will be vital in tackling tight situations.
Mayank Dagar is a promising spinner, who provides a different style and youthful energy to the spin department. His inclusion, if needed, will offer Bengaluru a varied spin attack.
Mohammed Siraj
As Bengaluru's leading wicket-taker in 2023, Siraj's form and pace spearhead role are crucial. His ability to swing the ball up front will be crucial. Siraj's recent international form adds to the confidence that he will be a key player for Bangalore.
Vijaykumar Vyshak/ Yash Dayal
Despite a challenging debut season, Vyshak's domestic performances indicate potential for growth. His role in supporting the pace attack, especially in the middle overs, will be essential for Bengaluru's bowling strategy.
A young talent with potential, Yash Dayal's pace and ability to swing the ball makes him an exciting backup option. His readiness to step in and deliver impactful performances will ensure Bengaluru's fast-bowling depth remains robust.
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