IPL 2020: Kolkata Knight Riders SWOT analysis

Opportunities

Become the second most successful IPL team alongside CSK

KKR last won the title in 2014

If KKR are able to win the IPL this year, they can draw level with CSK at three IPL titles each, and that would be some achievement given the stature of CSK as a franchise. KKR seem to have all the bases covered as far as the batting and the fast bowling are concerned.

Spin, as mentioned before, is the area that they lack back-up in, but they do possess the blend of firepower and experience in the other departments to make up for that little blip.

Thus, if all the players stay fit and if KKR are able to put out their best XI each game, there are chances of them lifting the trophy for the third time.

Threats

Injuries to key players

Andre Russell

One of the main issues for KKR, especially over the past couple of years, has been injuries to crucial players like Chris Lynn and Andre Russell. With the kind of impact that Russell has on the game and the kind of balance that he provides to the side, KKR simply cannot afford to lose him through injury.

The same goes with the spin department as there is no quality backup for either Kuldeep or Narine, and thus the two will have to stay fit and be in good form in order to see their team reach the playoffs and beyond.

If KKR are able to keep their star players fit and if they get on a run of victories, they can cause some serious damage to the opposition - and maybe even take that momentum all the way towards their third IPL title.