IPL 2019: SWOT analysis of the Kings XI Punjab squad

Opportunities

England & India Net Sessions

Many players are looking at the IPL as a platform to make an impact and earn a World Cup spot in their respective national teams.

One such player is KL Rahul. Rahul was once a permanent member of the Indian cricket team but due to certain reasons he lost his place and is now struggling to cement his spot again.

However, a good IPL season might see him taking part in the World Cup 2019, which is going to start on 30th May.

Just like Rahul, many other players like Ankit Rajpoot and Varun Chakravarthy will also see this IPL season as an opportunity to make an impact, which will take them close to their dream of playing for India in international cricket.

Threats

Mohammed Shami

The biggest threat to Punjab is that they lack quality Indian seamers. If you look at their squad then you will find that the team consists of only three Indian seamers - Mohammed Shami, Ankit Rajpoot and Darshan Nalkande.

Moreover, Nalkande has never played in the IPL and thus if either of Mohammed Shami or Ankit Rajpoot gets injured, then the pace department of the Ashwin-led side will become really weak.

Another thing that adds to Punjab's agony is that Shami might be rested for some matches to manage his workload as he will be playing the World Cup for India. If that happens then the chances of Punjab winning the IPL trophy might just get delayed for another season.