#5 Virat Kohli
Kohli has opened for India in the past but usually demotes himself to No.3. He doesn't have a great record batting in the first two batting positions in T20Is, averaging only 28 from seven games.
But, Kohli's versatility is best suited to the top of the order, as was evidenced with the Royal Challengers Bangalore. As an opener, Kohli gets enough time to form a proper innings and take his time because he is not someone who plays his strokes from the word go.
Kohli at the top will ensure that there is more space for Suresh Raina and MS Dhoni to play their game and take time if needed, with the likes of Hardik Pandya following them. Currently, his ferocious striking skills are not being utilised because he seldom gets to bat.
Follow IPL Auction 2025 Live Updates, News & Biddings at Sportskeeda. Get the fastest updates on Mega-Auction and cricket news