IPL 2017: Gujarat Lions (GL) Predicted XI

Praveen Kumar

He might have aged and become off-colour, but Praveen Kumar, the wily old fox, knows just when to bring his A game to the fore. Disciplinary and fitness issues have kept his Team India appearances to a few, but the 30-year old has gained enough experience over several years in the domestic circles and the IPL to perfect his trade.

He can swing the ball like a banana both ways, has a sharp mind that can out-think the batsman, and has years of knowledge to put to use. He can be the ideal mentor to the host of youngsters waiting in the wings to follow. If Praveen can keep his fitness levels up, the Lions need not worry about their death bowling.

Basil Thampi

This exciting fast bowler, bustling with energy, could very well be the X-factor Gujarat was looking for. An out-and-out pacer, Thampi can hurl the ball consistently over the 140s barrier, and brings them the variety that they require with the other two pacers being seam bowlers.

Coached at the MRF pace academy, Thampi stitched in some impressive efforts in the inter-zonal T20 tournament, and followed it up with a stint as a net bowler with the Indian team. He got purchased for Rs. 85 lakhs, kickstarting a young career that could go to great heights. Owner Keshav Bansal admitted that they wanted to bolster their bowling resources this year, and the addition of Thampi in the team highlights just that.