IPL 2020: Match 31, RCB vs KXIP – RCB Predicted Playing XI

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have been one of the most balanced sides of the Indian Premier League (IPL) so far. Their bowling has been the weak link over the years but with the addition of Chris Morris and the form of their lead spinners, RCB is playing with absolute confidence. Their top four batsmen are in form, their middle order has shown promise and bowlers have won them matches.

With five wins in seven games, RCB is looking all set to clinch their playoffs ticket. However, RCB vs KXIP clash will be played at Sharjah and the small ground can surprise any team. Though Virat Kohli and company won their last match at Sharjah, the game against KXIP can be different as Punjab defeated them in their previous encounter.

Here is the predicted playing XI of RCB for Match 31, RCB vs KXIP:-

Openers (Aaron Finch and Devdutt Padikkal)

Aaron Finch has got starts but he is yet to play big innings in IPL 2020. However, with massive experience under his belt, the mighty Victorian should find a way out. Devdutt Padikkal has been their young star of the tournament so far and the composure shown by him has been impressive. His role will be to counter KXIP’s leg spinners, being a left-hander, at Sharjah’s small ground.

Middle Order (Virat Kohli (C), AB de Villiers (WK), Shivam Dube)

Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers are the main pillars of their batting order. As the conditions are ideal for batting, RCB will be playing an extra bowler and such balance puts extra pressure on these two-star batsmen. AB de Villiers stole the show with his power-hitting in the last game and he would want to repeat his performance. Shivam Dube will be playing as a finisher this time, as with six bowling options Kohli might not try Dube’s medium-pace.

All-rounders (Washington Sundar and Chris Morris)

Washington Sundar has been one of the most economical bowlers in the tournament so far and his batting prowess has also been displayed in the previous game. Chris Morris, the South African all-rounder has also been impressive with his 5 wickets in two games so far. If he gets a chance, he can also use the long handle to good effect lower down the order.

Bowlers (Isuru Udana, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohammad Siraj and Navdeep Saini)

Mohammad Siraj has done decently in both of his outings in the tournament till now. He can be used in the middle overs and powerplay as well. Navdeep Saini and Isuru Udana are their specialist death bowlers and their change of pace can be vital on a slow wicket like Sharjah. Yuzvendra Chahal is their leading wicket-taker and most reliable bowler as well. If the pitch becomes slow as the trend suggests, he can become extremely destructive.