IPL 2019: KXIP's strongest playing XI for their first game against RR

Spinners - Ravichandran Ashwin (C) and Varun Chakravarthy

Ashwin will want to improve his captaincy record and deliver with the ball too

KXIP have to make a tough decision and drop Mujeeb Ur Rahman in favor of Pooran or Curran because the Rajasthan pitch supports pace more than spin and it becomes hard to bowl spin as time goes on. With a quality spinner in Ashwin and the need to test big buy Varun, Mujeeb might have to sit out a couple of games but he can make it back if some of the other overseas players fail.

Ashwin will want to set things right this season and bowl more overs with the ball and pick up wickets. He's also a handy batsman who can come out to bat if needed.

Varun Chakravarthy made headlines after being bought for ₹8.4 Crore in the auction and this mystery spinner will want to unleash his tricks against the RR batsmen. He has heavy competition for a spot in the side and must perform well and shrug off the nerves.

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Fast Bowlers - Mohammed Shami and Andrew Tye

Andrew Tye

KXIP lacked a partner for Andrew Tye last season and Mohammad Shami might fit the bill perfectly, especially with his current form and confidence. Shami was bought by Punjab for ₹4.8 Crore and the deal seems like it may pay off as Shami is bowling very well. He will want to make use of the pace and bounce available in the Jaipur track and trouble the RR batsmen.

Andrew Tye was probably the best death bowler last season matching the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and was the saving grace for Punjab on many occasions. He won the Purple Cap picking up 24 wickets and doled out many variations which got the better of the batsmen and he will be Punjab's go-to bowler.

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