IPL 2020: Key middle-order batting pair for each franchise in case of a top-order collapse

#6 Steve Smith & Ben Stokes (Rajasthan Royals)

Steve Smith returns as RR skipper

Steve Smith is in the form of his life since his comeback after a one-year ban and has helped Australia retain the Ashes almost single-handedly. He has managed to extend his red-ball form into the limited-overs cricket and has been the backbone for the Australian team. Coming to IPL, he will be crucial for Rajasthan Royals in rebuilding with his unorthodox style of batting when their top 3 fails to perform.

Ben Stokes is an attacking batsman by nature and will be the one to support the skipper during the hardships. The 28-year-old has dominated the bowlers in Indian conditions at the international level and has been one of the key batsmen for any side he plays for. An example of the danger that he brings when he comes to bat is his maiden IPL century that he scored batting at number 5.

Rajasthan Royals are blessed to have these two providing a cushion to the likes of Jos Buttler, Robin Uthappa, and Sanju Samson as their top-order batsmen.