IPL 2020: SWOT Analysis of Kolkata Knight Riders

KKR in IPL 2020: Opportunities

Kamlesh Nagarkoti has been hampered by injuries thus far

#1 KKR's young stars can redeem themselves in IPL 2020

Since the departure of Gautam Gambhir, KKR under Dinesh Karthik have placed significant emphasis on youth, and the likes of Nitish Rana and Shubman Gill have turned heads with their performances in the IPL.

Their young fast bowlers, however, have been investments that haven't generated returns yet. Shivam Mavi has played in a few games and has shown why he is one of the most highly talked-about prospects in the country, but injuries and lack of consistency have hindered his development.

His partner, Kamlesh Nagarkoti has been stricken by injuries even more. The young quick is said to be useful with the bat and electric in the field, but hasn't gotten a chance to prove himself in the IPL. The bowler who has stepped in for KKR in the absence of Mavi and Nagarkoti, Prasidh Krishna, has been expensive despite intermittent brilliant spells.

For these players, as well as the likes of Varun Chakravarthy, Rinku Singh and Siddhesh Lad, IPL 2020 is an opportunity for them to show what they are capable of. They will get chances to prove themselves, and it'll be up to them to make the most of them.

#2 KKR have the chance to replace Harry Gurney with someone who can address their issues

After England pacer Harry Gurney was ruled out of IPL 2020, KKR attempted to replace him with fellow left-armer Mustafizur Rahman, but the Bangladesh Cricket Board denied him an NOC. This might turn out to be a blessing in disguise for KKR, who already have Pat Cummins and Lockie Ferguson to support their wealth of Indian fast-bowling talent.

Instead of a quick, KKR can replace Gurney with a player who could address their Indian batting or spin issues. Former player Yusuf Pathan, hometown batsman and club legend Manoj Tiwary, or Indian Test specialist Hanuma Vihari are all viable options whom KKR could look at and strengthen their squad further.

#3 Captain Dinesh Karthik has a lot riding on IPL 2020

For captain Dinesh Karthik, IPL 2020 is a crucial tournament in more ways than one. KKR entrusted him with the captaincy after Gambhir's highly successful reign, and he must justify their faith by a run deep into the tournament.

In the wake of MS Dhoni's official retirement from international cricket and Rishabh Pant's poor form for India, the wicket-keeper can also make a comeback to the white-ball teams. Leadership can elevate Dinesh Karthik's game in IPL 2020 and not only can he captain KKR to their third IPL title but also revive his own career in blue.