The second phase of IPL will begin in just a few days after a forced suspension midway through the season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With many players and support staff tested positive for Covid in May, BCCI was forced to suspend the IPL 2021 after 29 matches. The remaining 31 matches are slated to play from September 19 in the UAE.
Cricket is a game of intense thrill and suspense, and the shorter format of the game is full of glorious uncertainty. Everything changes in a split second, and anything is possible till the end. However, the game needs an action plan, perfect execution, presence of mind, ability to handle the pressure and instinctive analysis. Ahead of nonstop IPL excitement, let’s look at the top teams and their X factors capable of earning the trophy.
With five IPL trophies in their bag, Mumbai Indians is the most favourite team for many. The defending champion who won three titles in the last four years, continues to display its dominance in the league. Mumbai Indians undoubtedly become the most powerful franchise in the history of T20 cricket, setting a benchmark for a successful team. Owned by India’s biggest conglomerate Reliance Industries, Mukesh Ambani, the Reliance Industries chairman acquired the Mumbai franchise. The support staff include Mahela Jayawardene as head coach, Robin Singh as batting coach, Sachin Tendulkar as batting mentor, Shane Bond as bowling coach and James Pamment , the fielding coach. In 2017, Mumbai Indians became the first franchise to cross the 100 million dollar mark in brand value.
Delhi Capitals is currently at the top of the points table with six wins in eight games. Last year’s runner-up, Delhi Capitals, looks solid in their aggressive approach. The franchise is jointly owned by GMR group and JSW sports. With Ricky Ponting as head coach, Praveen Amre as batting coach, James Hopes as bowling coach and Mohammed Kaif as fielding coach, Delhi is amongst the top contenders for the title.
The three-time champion Chennai Super Kings is another strong team in the league. The Chennai based team is owned by Chennai Super Kings Cricket Ltd and India Cements. Led by the captain cool MS Dhoni and coached by Stephen Fleming, the team is making all noise in this edition.
Considered one of the most entertaining teams in the league, Royal Challengers Bangalore has a huge fan base worldwide. Although the team appeared in three finals, RCB is yet to win the cup. With players like Virat Kohli, AB De Villiers, Maxwell and Mohammed Siraj, RCB believes in playing boldly. Owned by United Spirits Limited, Bangalore is coached by Mike Hesson.
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