IPL 2018: The invincible all-rounders XI

Middle order

Maxwell had a batting average of 31 in IPL 2017

Glen Maxwell

After a slump in 2015 and 2016, Glen Maxwell was back to his explosive self in last year’s IPL. His recent performances for his national team also show that he has regained form. Maxwell will take guard at No. 3 and would have complete license to go hammer and tongs from the first ball. Given the abundance of bowlers in the XI, his bowling services may not be required but he can always chip in with an over of off-spin.

Ben Stokes

As soon as Ben Stokes made his return for England after he pleaded ‘not guilty’ to the affray charges, he re-established himself as their match winner. Stokes already has a century to his name in the IPL and can readily step on the gas when needed. His medium pacers are also on-point and difficult to get underneath (discounting his final over in the 2016 T20 World Cup).

Andre Russell

As per latest news, Andre Russell is recovering well from his hamstring injury and is all set to make a comeback for the Kolkata Knight Riders after a one year ban. He has served KKR well over the years and the franchise certainly felt his absence in the last season. Russell is an all-rounder in the truest sense of the word as he is as good with the ball as he is with the bat.