What has made KKR the side to beat in IPL 2017?

Flexible batting line-up

Chris Lynn made a huge impact on the KKR batting line-up before injuring himself

Chris Lynn started the campaign for KKR with an unbeaten 93 at a massive strike rate of 226.83. The side looked to have found an explosive opener and seemed content with their decision to open with him until he was ruled out due to an injury.

At this point, the Knight Riders gambled with Sunil Narine, their ace spinner, to open the innings with the bat. This move turned out to be a masterstroke as the southpaw managed quick starts striking at 171.08.

Extra Cover: IPL 2017: Chris Lynn eyes return in the match against Kings XI Punjab

The likes of Gambhir and Uthappa averaging at 55.29 and 42.67 respectively, have ensured a strong top order for KKR as well. The calm and steady Manish Pandey, with an average of over 60 and striking at 140, has strengthened the middle order effectively.

Yusuf Pathan demonstrated the firepower in their batting order when their top order failed to get a start against the Delhi Daredevils at Feroz Shah Kotla. Overall, KKR make for a flexible and an in-form batting side which can chase down massive totals with not much difficulty.