IPL 2023: Venkatesh Iyer Picks His Team Of The Tournament; Gets Andre Russell Into His XI Despite Horrible Season

Last Update on: June 2nd, 2023 at 05:46 pm

Venkatesh Iyer, the batter for Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League (IPL), revealed his team of the tournament during a chat with Star Sports, selecting some prominent names despite their mixed performances. Despite Andre Russell’s underwhelming season, Iyer opted to include him in his team.

Venkatesh Iyer’s lineup begins with Faf du Plessis and Shubman Gill as the opening pair, followed by the formidable Virat Kohli at number three. Suryakumar Yadav occupies the number four spot, while Rinku Singh secures the number five position.

The explosive Ravindra Jadeja takes the sixth slot, and the wicketkeeper-captain, MS Dhoni, follows at number seven. Completing the lineup are Andre Russell, Rashid Khan, Mohammed Shami, and Deepak Chahar as the chosen bowlers.

Despite Russell’s struggles during the tournament, Iyer showed faith in the West Indian all-rounder, recognizing his ability to turn the game around with his exceptional power-hitting skills and game-changing performances in the past.

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While analyzing his selection, Iyer highlighted the strength and potential of each player in his dream team. Faf du Plessis and Shubman Gill are expected to provide a solid foundation at the top of the order, utilizing their experience and skills to set the stage for a formidable batting lineup.

At number three, Virat Kohli’s inclusion comes as no surprise, considering his exceptional batting prowess this season. Suryakumar Yadav, renowned for his aggressive stroke play is positioned at number four. His recent performances have impressed many, and his inclusion adds dynamism to the batting lineup.

Two KKR Players Find Their Way In Venkatesh Iyer’s IPL 2023 Playing XI

Rinku Singh, who set the stage on fire this season, has been chosen at number five, aiming to provide firepower in the middle overs. Singh’s ability to play big shots and rotate the strike makes him a valuable asset to the team.

Ravindra Jadeja’s inclusion as the team’s sixth player further strengthens the batting and adds versatility with his exceptional spin bowling and electric fielding skills. The experienced campaigner and former Indian captain, MS Dhoni, takes charge as the wicketkeeper-captain at number seven. Dhoni’s leadership qualities and finishing abilities are expected to bring a winning edge to the team.

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Moving on to the bowling options, Venkatesh Iyer has selected Andre Russell despite his lackluster performance this season, acknowledging his match-winning capabilities. Rashid Khan, renowned for his impeccable spin bowling, adds variation and control to the team’s bowling attack.

Mohammed Shami and Deepak Chahar complete the lineup as the seam-bowling options. Both bowlers have displayed consistent performances throughout the tournament and are known for their ability to swing the ball and pick crucial wickets.

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Although Venkatesh Iyer’s team selection may raise a few eyebrows due to the inclusion of certain players with inconsistent performances, his choices reflect his belief in their potential and past achievements.

Venkatesh Iyer’s Playing XI: Faf Du Plessis, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rinku Singh, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (c), Andre Russell, Rashid Khan, Mohammed Shami, Deepak Chahar