Veteran Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has been included for T20s vs South Africa, after his return to Test Cricket last month. India’s limited over captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni is also back into spotlight after a three-month break. Inclusion of uncapped Punjab allrounder Gurkeerat Mann in the ODI squad at the expense of “Sir Jadeja” came as a much awaited surprise. Though, Jadeja’s recent performances clearly justify this decision. Now it’s Gurkeerat turn to capitalise on this opportunity with both hands, if he gets a place in the playing eleven. Uncapped Karnataka seamer S Aravind was also picked for the T20 Internationals. Leg spinner Amit Mishra has retained his place in the side, after an impressive performance against Sri Lanka. Fast bowler Mohammed Shami has been left out, as he is still going through a rehabilitation process, after a knee injury during the tour of Australia in 2014-15. He last played for India during the 2015 World Cup and has been shunned since then. The Gandhi-Mandela series begins on 2nd October, which comprises of three T20Is, five ODIs and four Test matches. ODI squad: MS Dhoni (captain), R Ashwin, Stuart Binny, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Axar Patel, Ajinkya Rahane, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, Mohit Sharma, Rohit Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Gurkeerat Mann, Amit Mishra T20 squad: MS Dhoni (captain), R Ashwin, Stuart Binny, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Axar Patel, Ajinkya Rahane, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, Mohit Sharma, Rohit Sharma, S Aravind, Harbhajan Singh, Amit Mishra 

Indian Team squad for T20 and ODI for the Home series against Proteas.

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Profile

Ajinkya heads into IPL 2019 as the skipper of Rajasthan Royals. He spent three of his years with the Mumbai Indians before moving to the Rajasthan Royals. Following their ban, he moved to Rising Pune Supergiant and returned to the Royals when the ban was lifted.

Ajinkya Rahane is 30-years old as he enters the IPL 2019 season. He also has adequate opportunities to excel in IPL 2019 as the one of the team's top opening batsmen this year.

Since 2011, during which he made his debut for India in ODIs, T20Is and Test Matches, his career has been on the rise. Rahane even boasts of few note-worthy performances at the international and domestic level.

Rahane’s 2019 IPL contract and salary stands at an estimated Rs 40 million. It was a steep drop from and astounding Rs 95 million in 2017. However, that was when he signed with Pune, and given that he is not getting any younger, his backers may have felt that he is losing his touch.

<img class="size-full wp-image-151690 aligncenter" src="http://www.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/D2CJ1xJX0AAWwAu-e1553014836540.jpg" alt="Ajinkya Rahane" width="594" height="446" />

IPL Career

Ajinkya Rahane made his Indian Premier League debut in during the series' inception in 2008 for the Mumbai Indians. In 2018, Rahane was brought back to the Royals from the now defunct RPS for Rs 4 crore.

Since then, he has remained with the Rajasthan side and was handed the Rajasthani mantle in 2018. Initially, Steve Smith was the skipper, but in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal, Smith stepped down. Rahane led the side to fourth in the IPL table, but the team lost their playoffs match.

He is primarily not known for being a T20 player, but has proven himself. With Mumbai, he got a limited number of chances, but in his first stint with Rajasthan, he truly shone.

In terms of personal records, Rahane is the leading run-scorer for the team with 2705 runs.

&nbsp;

Expectations for IPL 2019

Rahane is expected to lead by example as Rajasthan are set to campaign for their second title. The Rajasthan Royals have always been considered underdogs and it showed when they clinch the 2008 title.

Rahane also has some impressive stats to his name. He has accumulated one century and 26 half centuries to his name. The 30-year old also has 65 sixes, the most (13) coming from the 2015 season.

Ajinkya Rahane

Profile Ajinkya heads into IPL 2019 as the skipper of Rajasthan Royals. He spent three of his years with the Mumbai Indians before moving to the Rajasthan Royals. Following their ban, he moved to Rising Pune Supergiant and returned to the Royals when the ban was lifted. Ajinkya Rahane is 30-years old as he enters the IPL 2019 season. He also has adequate opportunities to excel in IPL 2019 as the one of the team&#8217;s top opening batsmen this year. Since 2011, during which he made his debut for India in ODIs, T20Is and Test Matches, his career has been on the rise. Rahane even boasts of few note-worthy performances at the international and domestic level. Rahane’s 2019 IPL contract and salary stands at an estimated Rs 40 million. It was a steep drop from and astounding Rs 95 million in 2017. However, that was when he signed with Pune, and given that he is not getting any younger, his backers may have felt that he is losing his touch. IPL Career Ajinkya Rahane made his Indian Premier League debut in during the series&#8217; inception in 2008 for the Mumbai Indians. In 2018, Rahane was brought back to the Royals from the now defunct RPS for Rs 4 crore. Since then, he has remained with the Rajasthan side and was handed the Rajasthani mantle in 2018. Initially, Steve Smith was the skipper, but in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal, Smith stepped down. Rahane led the side to fourth in the IPL table, but the team lost their playoffs match. He is primarily not known for being a T20 player, but has proven himself. With Mumbai, he got a limited number of chances, but in his first stint with Rajasthan, he truly shone. In terms of personal records, Rahane is the leading run-scorer for the team with 2705 runs. &nbsp; Expectations for IPL 2019 Rahane is expected to lead by example as Rajasthan are set to campaign for their second title. The Rajasthan Royals have always been considered underdogs and it showed when they clinch the 2008 title. Rahane also has some impressive stats to his name. He has accumulated one century and 26 half centuries to his name. The 30-year old also has 65 sixes, the most (13) coming from the 2015 season.

Ajinkya Rahane Archives

Ajinkya Rahane Archives - EssentiallySports

Ambati Rayudu Biography

Ambati Rayudu was first discovered at the age of 16. This set off plenty of buzz of him being the next big star in Indian cricket. Sadly, life was not easy and Rayudu found out the hard way. Ambati Rayudu was the Indian Under-19 captain and led them to the World Cup semifinals in 2004.

Ambati Rayudu started his cricket career with Andhra in the Ranji Trophy. However, he was constantly jumping ship owing to the severe lack of runs. Some felt that Rayudu has been unlucky in terms of being called up by selectors.

Statistically speaking, he has a been churning in decent games in ODI cricket. He still has the goods to perform, if the IPL is any proof. But at times it often looks like he is not cut out for international cricket.

IPL Career

Ambati Rayudu's impressive performance in the domestic scene attracted the Mumbai Indians. Settling into the middle-order role and part-time wicket-keeper, Rayudu was a key player. After a 10-year partnership, a change of scenery was made and he got picked by the Chennai Super Kings in 2018.

In between all this, Rayudu did get a few national call ups during his tenure. However, it was only as a last resort when the main players have been rested. Regardless, he always grabbed the opportunity to show the selectors that they made the right choice.

Expectations for IPL 2019

Ambati Rayudu would have been bummed to miss out on the World Cup 2019 berth. However, the Super Kings still have plenty of faith in him to deliver in IPL 2019.

Ambati Rayudu

Ambati Rayudu Biography Ambati Rayudu was first discovered at the age of 16. This set off plenty of buzz of him being the next big star in Indian cricket. Sadly, life was not easy and Rayudu found out the hard way. Ambati Rayudu was the Indian Under-19 captain and led them to the World Cup semifinals in 2004. Ambati Rayudu started his cricket career with Andhra in the Ranji Trophy. However, he was constantly jumping ship owing to the severe lack of runs. Some felt that Rayudu has been unlucky in terms of being called up by selectors. Statistically speaking, he has a been churning in decent games in ODI cricket. He still has the goods to perform, if the IPL is any proof. But at times it often looks like he is not cut out for international cricket. IPL Career Ambati Rayudu&#8217;s impressive performance in the domestic scene attracted the Mumbai Indians. Settling into the middle-order role and part-time wicket-keeper, Rayudu was a key player. After a 10-year partnership, a change of scenery was made and he got picked by the Chennai Super Kings in 2018. In between all this, Rayudu did get a few national call ups during his tenure. However, it was only as a last resort when the main players have been rested. Regardless, he always grabbed the opportunity to show the selectors that they made the right choice. Expectations for IPL 2019 Ambati Rayudu would have been bummed to miss out on the World Cup 2019 berth. However, the Super Kings still have plenty of faith in him to deliver in IPL 2019.

Ambati Rayudu Archives

Ambati Rayudu Archives - EssentiallySports

Amit Mishra

Amit Mishra Archives

Amit Mishra Archives - EssentiallySports

Axar Patel Biography

Axar Patel made his India debut in 2014 for the ODI team and in 2015 for the T20 team. His national call up was the result of a successful IPL stint. In a 5 match ODI series against West Indies, he played in the 4th ODI. Axar Patel got a dream debut where he conceded 26 runs for 2 wickets in his 10 overs.

In another 5-match series, this time against Sri Lanka, he played all 5. He managed to scalp 11 wickets and scored 31 runs at a strike rate of 178.

He was even part of India's 15-man squad for the 2015 Cricket World Cup. With regard to T20 cricket, he made his T20 International debut against Zimbabwe in 2015.

A year later, Axar Patel's ranking improved to 13th place following a 3-wicket haul against Zimbabwe.

IPL Career

Axar Patel's IPL career kicked off with the Mumbai Indians in 2013. Sadly, he didn't get much playing time with the 'Paltan'.

Then, the Kings XI Punjab roped him into their team in 2014. Axar Patel's career then skyrocketed in the wake of an impressive season with Punjab with 17 wickets under his belt.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-152491" src="http://www.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/5f41bbde78904540ea2122befba223c7.jpg" alt="Axar Patel" width="800" height="533" />

That year, he was named as the 'Emerging Player of the Year'. Kings XI Punjab retained his serviced for IPL 2015, owing to his impressive performances. In 2016, playing against the Gujarat Lions, Axar Patel's record books got its first accolade, the first and only hat-trick of that season. Naturally, Punjab viewed him as a valuable asset and retained him once again, for the 2018 season.

However, in the 2018 auctions, Punjab was beaten by the newly reborn Delhi Capitals for the signing of Axar Patel.

IPL 2019 Expectations

Axar Patel is a highly talented player and the Delhi team are lucky to have him. Axar Patel's IPL 2019 career will be with the Capitals, so the crucial question is, can he make the difference for them?

axar patel

Axar Patel Biography Axar Patel made his India debut in 2014 for the ODI team and in 2015 for the T20 team. His national call up was the result of a successful IPL stint. In a 5 match ODI series against West Indies, he played in the 4th ODI. Axar Patel got a dream debut where he conceded 26 runs for 2 wickets in his 10 overs. In another 5-match series, this time against Sri Lanka, he played all 5. He managed to scalp 11 wickets and scored 31 runs at a strike rate of 178. He was even part of India&#8217;s 15-man squad for the 2015 Cricket World Cup. With regard to T20 cricket, he made his T20 International debut against Zimbabwe in 2015. A year later, Axar Patel&#8217;s ranking improved to 13th place following a 3-wicket haul against Zimbabwe. IPL Career Axar Patel&#8217;s IPL career kicked off with the Mumbai Indians in 2013. Sadly, he didn&#8217;t get much playing time with the &#8216;Paltan&#8217;. Then, the Kings XI Punjab roped him into their team in 2014. Axar Patel&#8217;s career then skyrocketed in the wake of an impressive season with Punjab with 17 wickets under his belt. That year, he was named as the &#8216;Emerging Player of the Year&#8217;. Kings XI Punjab retained his serviced for IPL 2015, owing to his impressive performances. In 2016, playing against the Gujarat Lions, Axar Patel&#8217;s record books got its first accolade, the first and only hat-trick of that season. Naturally, Punjab viewed him as a valuable asset and retained him once again, for the 2018 season. However, in the 2018 auctions, Punjab was beaten by the newly reborn Delhi Capitals for the signing of Axar Patel. IPL 2019 Expectations Axar Patel is a highly talented player and the Delhi team are lucky to have him. Axar Patel&#8217;s IPL 2019 career will be with the Capitals, so the crucial question is, can he make the difference for them?

axar patel Archives

axar patel Archives - EssentiallySports

Bhuvneshwar Kumar Biography

Bhuvneshwar Kumar is a 29-year old bowler who is one of the country's top pacers. He made his national debut in 2012 for the T20 and ODI teams and 2013 for the Test team.

In his debut series in Test cricket, Bhuvneshwar Kumar bagged 6 wickets in four matches and even set the record for the highest score by an Indian number 10 on debut with 38 runs.

In T20 cricket, he made his debut against India's arch-rivals, Pakistan. There, he picked up 3 wickets for 9 runs in just 4 overs at an economy rate of 2.25.

Meanwhile, in ODI cricket, he snatched a wicket on the very first ball. Once again, their hapless opponents were Pakistan.

IPL Career

Bhuvneshwar Kumar made his IPL debut in 2009. Then, a 19-year old, he kicked off his career with the Royal Challengers Bangalore. Bhuvneshwar Kumar stuck with them for IPL 2010 before moving to Pune Warriors India in 2011.

The Meerut-born pacer remained with the side until 2013 when they dissolved. Now, Kumar has moved to the Sunrisers Hyderabad for the next stage of his IPL career.

Though he signed for RCB in 2009 and 2010, he was not seen on the pitch until his Pune days. In 2011, he had very few chances to shine, but made it count with 3 wickets from four matches.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-153049 size-full" src="http://www.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Kumar.jpg" alt="Bhuvneshwar Kumar" width="800" height="539" />

It was only in his Hyderabad career when Bhuvneshwar Kumar witness an upsurge in his career stats. For three straight years, Bhuvneshwar Kumar registered more than 15 wickets in his stats.

It was only in 2017 that Bhuvneshwar Kumar and his bowling peaked. That year, he took a haul of 26 wickets in 14 matches, which amounted to nearly two wickets per match.

IPL 2019 Expectations

Now, in IPL 2019, he has been retained as the star bowler. In addition to that, he is also the vice captain of the team. Bhuvi will undoubtedly lead the pace attack in IPL 2019.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar

Bhuvneshwar Kumar Biography Bhuvneshwar Kumar is a 29-year old bowler who is one of the country&#8217;s top pacers. He made his national debut in 2012 for the T20 and ODI teams and 2013 for the Test team. In his debut series in Test cricket, Bhuvneshwar Kumar bagged 6 wickets in four matches and even set the record for the highest score by an Indian number 10 on debut with 38 runs. In T20 cricket, he made his debut against India&#8217;s arch-rivals, Pakistan. There, he picked up 3 wickets for 9 runs in just 4 overs at an economy rate of 2.25. Meanwhile, in ODI cricket, he snatched a wicket on the very first ball. Once again, their hapless opponents were Pakistan. IPL Career Bhuvneshwar Kumar made his IPL debut in 2009. Then, a 19-year old, he kicked off his career with the Royal Challengers Bangalore. Bhuvneshwar Kumar stuck with them for IPL 2010 before moving to Pune Warriors India in 2011. The Meerut-born pacer remained with the side until 2013 when they dissolved. Now, Kumar has moved to the Sunrisers Hyderabad for the next stage of his IPL career. Though he signed for RCB in 2009 and 2010, he was not seen on the pitch until his Pune days. In 2011, he had very few chances to shine, but made it count with 3 wickets from four matches. It was only in his Hyderabad career when Bhuvneshwar Kumar witness an upsurge in his career stats. For three straight years, Bhuvneshwar Kumar registered more than 15 wickets in his stats. It was only in 2017 that Bhuvneshwar Kumar and his bowling peaked. That year, he took a haul of 26 wickets in 14 matches, which amounted to nearly two wickets per match. IPL 2019 Expectations Now, in IPL 2019, he has been retained as the star bowler. In addition to that, he is also the vice captain of the team. Bhuvi will undoubtedly lead the pace attack in IPL 2019.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar Archives

Bhuvneshwar Kumar Archives - EssentiallySports

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India vs South Africa

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Mohit Sharma

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R Ashwin

R Ashwin Archives

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Rohit Sharma Biography

Rohit Sharma is currently the vice captain of the Indian cricket team. He plays for the Indian team and prior to joining the senior team, he was in India A, India Green,India Under-19s, Mumbai, Mumbai Cricket Association President's XI and the Mumbai Under-19s.

A prolific run-getter, the Hitman, as he is popularly known, is one of the most naturally gifted batsmen in the world.

IPL Career

In terms of IPL experience, he kicked off his career with the Deccan Chargers. From there, he moved to the Mumbai Indians and has remained there ever since. Rohit Sharma gradually worked his way up the ranks. As of now, he is captaining the Mumbai Indians franchise.

The Mumbai Indians have had three IPL triumphs and Sharma has led the side to all three of these triumphs.

Expectations for IPL 2019

Rohit Sharma boasts of a strike rate of 131.01 and a highest score of 109* in 2012. So far, he has amassed 4600 runs in the IPL and is well on his way to 5000.

All eyes will be on him as he leads Mumbai Indians to a potential 4th title. Sharma is said to play the most important role in MI’s road to glory.

In the shorter format, his striking abilities are unparalleled. During his Deccan Chargers stint, Rohit Sharma was one of the most consistent batsmen in the first three IPL seasons. He also played a role in guided the now defunct to to their one and only win in 2009.

From 2011 onwards, he has been instrumental for the Mumbai Indians. Rohit Sharma took over the team’s captaincy a couple of games into the 2013 season and led MI to their maiden IPL title.

The Mumbai Indians had an up and down season in 2018, but will be looking forward to a storming start in their quest to seal a spot in the playoffs. When they do, Rohit Sharma will be right there to see them through.

Rohit Sharma

Rohit Sharma Biography Rohit Sharma is currently the vice captain of the Indian cricket team. He plays for the Indian team and prior to joining the senior team, he was in India A, India Green,India Under-19s, Mumbai, Mumbai Cricket Association President&#8217;s XI and the Mumbai Under-19s. A prolific run-getter, the Hitman, as he is popularly known, is one of the most naturally gifted batsmen in the world. IPL Career In terms of IPL experience, he kicked off his career with the Deccan Chargers. From there, he moved to the Mumbai Indians and has remained there ever since. Rohit Sharma gradually worked his way up the ranks. As of now, he is captaining the Mumbai Indians franchise. The Mumbai Indians have had three IPL triumphs and Sharma has led the side to all three of these triumphs. Expectations for IPL 2019 Rohit Sharma boasts of a strike rate of 131.01 and a highest score of 109* in 2012. So far, he has amassed 4600 runs in the IPL and is well on his way to 5000. All eyes will be on him as he leads Mumbai Indians to a potential 4th title. Sharma is said to play the most important role in MI’s road to glory. In the shorter format, his striking abilities are unparalleled. During his Deccan Chargers stint, Rohit Sharma was one of the most consistent batsmen in the first three IPL seasons. He also played a role in guided the now defunct to to their one and only win in 2009. From 2011 onwards, he has been instrumental for the Mumbai Indians. Rohit Sharma took over the team’s captaincy a couple of games into the 2013 season and led MI to their maiden IPL title. The Mumbai Indians had an up and down season in 2018, but will be looking forward to a storming start in their quest to seal a spot in the playoffs. When they do, Rohit Sharma will be right there to see them through.

Rohit Sharma Archives

Rohit Sharma Archives - EssentiallySports

Shikhar Dhawan Biography

33-year old Shikhar Dhawan is currently seen as the star player for Delhi Capitals. The Delhi-born man was one of the key players for the national team. Shikhar Dhawan's records include, the fastest ever debut century.

He first made his mark on the Indian team in 2010 with the ODI squad. A year later, he was drafted into the Two team, and finally, the Test team in 2013.

Shikhar Dhawan's ranking is 50th in Tests, 12 in ODIs and 17 in T20 cricket.

IPL Career

He was quite an expensive man during the IPL 2019 auction. In fact, Shikhar Dhawan's auction price in 2018 was Rs 5.2 crore. Kings XI Punjab won the bid, but the Sunrisers used their Right to Match card and reclaimed him.

Shikhar Dhawan's IPL career actually kicked off with the then Delhi Daredevils. Then, in seasons 2 and 3, he became a Mumbai paltan before moving to the Deccan Chargers for IPL 4.

After the Deccan Chargers folded, he was drafted into the newly-formed Sunrisers Hyderabad. As an added bonus, he even captained the side, although it only lasted a year.

He would remain with the Sunrisers right up till 2018, before a return to Delhi in a trade deal.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-151963" src="http://www.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Shikhar-Dhawan-1.jpg" alt="Shikhar Dhawan" width="628" height="355" />

Expectations for IPL 2019

Shikhar Dhawan's batting prowess in well-known and he can be deadly, especially when playing as an opener.

The Delhi team are undoubtedly lucky to acquire his services and he will be a valuable asset to them.

He does have one triumph under his belt, in helping skipper David Warner guide the Sunrisers to glory. The team actually managed to win the IPL crown in 2016, owing to Dhawan's performance with the willow playing a prominent role.

In last year's IPL, they were agonisingly close as they lost to Chennai Super Kings in the final.

Shikhar Dhawan

Shikhar Dhawan Biography 33-year old Shikhar Dhawan is currently seen as the star player for Delhi Capitals. The Delhi-born man was one of the key players for the national team. Shikhar Dhawan&#8217;s records include, the fastest ever debut century. He first made his mark on the Indian team in 2010 with the ODI squad. A year later, he was drafted into the Two team, and finally, the Test team in 2013. Shikhar Dhawan&#8217;s ranking is 50th in Tests, 12 in ODIs and 17 in T20 cricket. IPL Career He was quite an expensive man during the IPL 2019 auction. In fact, Shikhar Dhawan&#8217;s auction price in 2018 was Rs 5.2 crore. Kings XI Punjab won the bid, but the Sunrisers used their Right to Match card and reclaimed him. Shikhar Dhawan&#8217;s IPL career actually kicked off with the then Delhi Daredevils. Then, in seasons 2 and 3, he became a Mumbai paltan before moving to the Deccan Chargers for IPL 4. After the Deccan Chargers folded, he was drafted into the newly-formed Sunrisers Hyderabad. As an added bonus, he even captained the side, although it only lasted a year. He would remain with the Sunrisers right up till 2018, before a return to Delhi in a trade deal. Expectations for IPL 2019 Shikhar Dhawan&#8217;s batting prowess in well-known and he can be deadly, especially when playing as an opener. The Delhi team are undoubtedly lucky to acquire his services and he will be a valuable asset to them. He does have one triumph under his belt, in helping skipper David Warner guide the Sunrisers to glory. The team actually managed to win the IPL crown in 2016, owing to Dhawan&#8217;s performance with the willow playing a prominent role. In last year&#8217;s IPL, they were agonisingly close as they lost to Chennai Super Kings in the final.

Shikhar Dhawan Archives

Shikhar Dhawan Archives - EssentiallySports

South Africa

South Africa Archives

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Stuart Binny

Stuart Binny Archives

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Suresh Raina Biography

Suresh Raina is regarded as one of India's finest T20 batsmen. He stormed into the international scene during the Greg Chappell era. However, after a blistering start, his form dipped over the next year. Then, injury struck so his career was paused in the latter part of the 2007 season.

But it was the IPL that helped revive his career from the ashes. Suresh Raina cemented his spot as a capable finisher for the side, often chipping in with priceless cameos apart from getting the sizable knocks.

A big example of Raina's big match temperament was the way he chipped in during the 2011 quarterfinal against Australia and then the semifinal against Pakistan. Both were cameos statistically but were worth its weight in gold.

Raina was the first Indian player to hold a century in all three formats of the game and although red-ball cricket wasn't his cup of tea, his contributions in the other formats were valuable to Indian cricket. There has always been immense criticism about his short ball Achilles heel in limited-overs cricket, but it does not qualify as a flaw.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-127633" src="http://www.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Suresh-Raina-plays-a-shot.jpg" alt="Suresh Raina" width="628" height="355" />

Time away from the Indian team wasn't good for Raina as he wasn't quite able to make the runs in domestic cricket. He still played T20Is although he found himself strangely dropped from there as well, ironically after a Man of the Match performance against England in early 2017.

After a really lean patch, Raina shone in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, India's domestic T20 tournament, in early 2018 and earned himself a recall to the Indian side for the T20 series in South Africa. He did decently well in South Africa, which pressed the selectors persisted with him for the Nidahas Trophy and the England tour. However, he was not picked for the national side after that due to not-so-great fitness levels and others grabbing opportunities. This meant he was out of the reckoning for the 2019 World Cup as well.

IPL Career

Raina was the backbone of Chennai Super Kings' success. His dashing left-hand style of play at No. 3 gave CSK the luxury to attack at will with a lot of firepower left down the order. The fact that he is currently the highest run-getter in the history of IPL. It explains the importance of Raina's contribution to the side.

The lofted straight drive (or hitting in the V) is a shot fans savour to watch as he audaciously plays without fear in a tournament like IPL. He recorded his highest-score in IPL - 100 not out against Kings XI Punjab in 2013 in Chennai, but his blitzkrieg (87 runs off just 25 balls) against KXIP in Qualifier 2 in 2015 standouts amongst all of his IPL performances.

Raina also bowls very useful right-arm off spin and was often used by Dhoni when he had to look for breakthroughs or try something different. However, he has not been bowling of late with many other options being available for the captain. When CSK faced a two-year exile after the 2015 season, Raina captained the temporary franchise Gujarat Lions as well. When CSK returned from the hiatus, he was one of the three players retained by the franchise . He has been one of the greats in IPL history, referred fondly as 'Mr.IPL' due to his dominance in the tournament, where he has scored in excess of 400 runs every year, barring two seasons.

Expectations for IPL 2019

Suresh Raina is an excellent player and will be a key weapon for CSK's 4th IPL title.

Suresh Raina

Suresh Raina Biography Suresh Raina is regarded as one of India&#8217;s finest T20 batsmen. He stormed into the international scene during the Greg Chappell era. However, after a blistering start, his form dipped over the next year. Then, injury struck so his career was paused in the latter part of the 2007 season. But it was the IPL that helped revive his career from the ashes. Suresh Raina cemented his spot as a capable finisher for the side, often chipping in with priceless cameos apart from getting the sizable knocks. A big example of Raina&#8217;s big match temperament was the way he chipped in during the 2011 quarterfinal against Australia and then the semifinal against Pakistan. Both were cameos statistically but were worth its weight in gold. Raina was the first Indian player to hold a century in all three formats of the game and although red-ball cricket wasn&#8217;t his cup of tea, his contributions in the other formats were valuable to Indian cricket. There has always been immense criticism about his short ball Achilles heel in limited-overs cricket, but it does not qualify as a flaw. Time away from the Indian team wasn&#8217;t good for Raina as he wasn&#8217;t quite able to make the runs in domestic cricket. He still played T20Is although he found himself strangely dropped from there as well, ironically after a Man of the Match performance against England in early 2017. After a really lean patch, Raina shone in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, India&#8217;s domestic T20 tournament, in early 2018 and earned himself a recall to the Indian side for the T20 series in South Africa. He did decently well in South Africa, which pressed the selectors persisted with him for the Nidahas Trophy and the England tour. However, he was not picked for the national side after that due to not-so-great fitness levels and others grabbing opportunities. This meant he was out of the reckoning for the 2019 World Cup as well. IPL Career Raina was the backbone of Chennai Super Kings&#8217; success. His dashing left-hand style of play at No. 3 gave CSK the luxury to attack at will with a lot of firepower left down the order. The fact that he is currently the highest run-getter in the history of IPL. It explains the importance of Raina&#8217;s contribution to the side. The lofted straight drive (or hitting in the V) is a shot fans savour to watch as he audaciously plays without fear in a tournament like IPL. He recorded his highest-score in IPL &#8211; 100 not out against Kings XI Punjab in 2013 in Chennai, but his blitzkrieg (87 runs off just 25 balls) against KXIP in Qualifier 2 in 2015 standouts amongst all of his IPL performances. Raina also bowls very useful right-arm off spin and was often used by Dhoni when he had to look for breakthroughs or try something different. However, he has not been bowling of late with many other options being available for the captain. When CSK faced a two-year exile after the 2015 season, Raina captained the temporary franchise Gujarat Lions as well. When CSK returned from the hiatus, he was one of the three players retained by the franchise . He has been one of the greats in IPL history, referred fondly as &#8216;Mr.IPL&#8217; due to his dominance in the tournament, where he has scored in excess of 400 runs every year, barring two seasons. Expectations for IPL 2019 Suresh Raina is an excellent player and will be a key weapon for CSK&#8217;s 4th IPL title.

Suresh Raina Archives

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Umesh Yadav Biography

Umesh Yadav is the definition of started from the bottom and now we're here. He is the son of a coal-miner and initially wanted to be a police officer. Then, in his teenage years Umesh Yadav took up cricket.

Yadav entered the Ranji trophy with the unheralded Vidarbha team. Yadav honed his skill as a pacer and soon earned a 2008 Ranji debut against Madhya Pradesh. He snatched 20 wickets in his debut season and his pace peaked in the 140. It wasn't long before the selectors turned in his direction.

He was picked for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia in 2014/15. However, it was only out of desperation as fast bowling options were very limited. However, Yadav gave the national selectors a reason to not doubt their decision with 11 wickets.

However, the only thing that worked against him was consistency. But he really couldn't be blamed as it was India's slip catching let him down.

Redemption came in the form of the 2015 World Cup in Australia. Umesh Yadav snagged 18 wickets and was India's highest wicket-taker.

IPL Career

Umesh Yadav made his IPL debut back in 2010 for the Delhi Daredevils. However, like nearly every debutant, he suffered from the limited game time syndrome. To make matters worse, his figures were not making a very good case for him. 2011 was also a mediocre year, again with limited chances. But in 2012, things changed dramatically. 19 wickets and the fourth highest wicket taker, is nothing to sniff at.

He moved to the Kolkata Knight Riders in 2014 and helped them to the title. Umesh Yadav's contribution to the triumphant side was 11 wickets. He soon worked his way into becoming one of the important members of the KKR team.

During his KKR stint, Umesh Yadav amassed a total of 48 wickets,  the fourth highest in the franchise's history. However, he was let go ahead of IPL 2018 and the Royal Challengers Bangalore pounced. Umesh Yadav was brought in for an astounding 4.2 crore.

He made it worth their while with 20 wickets in his first season. His impressive performance ensured that he was retained for IPL 2019.

IPL 2019 Expectations

Umesh Yadav has registered best figures of 4 wickets for 24 runs back in the 2013 season. Skipper Virat Kohli will be dependent on him to bowl at his lethal best and keep the wickets tumbling

Umesh Yadav

Umesh Yadav Biography Umesh Yadav is the definition of started from the bottom and now we&#8217;re here. He is the son of a coal-miner and initially wanted to be a police officer. Then, in his teenage years Umesh Yadav took up cricket. Yadav entered the Ranji trophy with the unheralded Vidarbha team. Yadav honed his skill as a pacer and soon earned a 2008 Ranji debut against Madhya Pradesh. He snatched 20 wickets in his debut season and his pace peaked in the 140. It wasn&#8217;t long before the selectors turned in his direction. He was picked for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia in 2014/15. However, it was only out of desperation as fast bowling options were very limited. However, Yadav gave the national selectors a reason to not doubt their decision with 11 wickets. However, the only thing that worked against him was consistency. But he really couldn&#8217;t be blamed as it was India&#8217;s slip catching let him down. Redemption came in the form of the 2015 World Cup in Australia. Umesh Yadav snagged 18 wickets and was India&#8217;s highest wicket-taker. IPL Career Umesh Yadav made his IPL debut back in 2010 for the Delhi Daredevils. However, like nearly every debutant, he suffered from the limited game time syndrome. To make matters worse, his figures were not making a very good case for him. 2011 was also a mediocre year, again with limited chances. But in 2012, things changed dramatically. 19 wickets and the fourth highest wicket taker, is nothing to sniff at. He moved to the Kolkata Knight Riders in 2014 and helped them to the title. Umesh Yadav&#8217;s contribution to the triumphant side was 11 wickets. He soon worked his way into becoming one of the important members of the KKR team. During his KKR stint, Umesh Yadav amassed a total of 48 wickets,  the fourth highest in the franchise&#8217;s history. However, he was let go ahead of IPL 2018 and the Royal Challengers Bangalore pounced. Umesh Yadav was brought in for an astounding 4.2 crore. He made it worth their while with 20 wickets in his first season. His impressive performance ensured that he was retained for IPL 2019. IPL 2019 Expectations Umesh Yadav has registered best figures of 4 wickets for 24 runs back in the 2013 season. Skipper Virat Kohli will be dependent on him to bowl at his lethal best and keep the wickets tumbling

Umesh Yadav Archives

Umesh Yadav Archives - EssentiallySports

Profile

Virat Kohli has had an impressive career since making his debut in the Indian team in 2008. He first broke into the national side in ODIs, soon followed by a 2010 debut in T20s and a Test debut in 2011.

Since then, his rise has been meteoric and he eventually took the mantle of India captain from MS Dhoni. ODI captaincy was up first in 2013, followed by Test captaincy when MS Dhoni announced his retirement in 2014. Finally, Virat Kohli was appointed T20 skipper in 2017.

IPL Career

Virat Kohli made his IPL debut back in 2008 itself for Royal Challengers Bangalore. Since then, he has remained in the team all these years.

After an average debut season, his form picked up in subsequent years. For two straight seasons, he was in the top 3 of highest run-scorers in IPL.

In 2011, he was promoted to vice captain and even took over as skipper when regular, Daniel Vettori was injured. When the latter retired in 2013, Kohli took the mantle of RCB captain, and has led the side ever since.

Now, for IPL 2019, Virat Kohli heads into the new season as the captain once again.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-151142" src="http://www.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/kohli-ap-m1.jpg" alt="Virat Kohli" width="759" height="422" />

Expectations for IPL 2019

With regard to expectations, there is a lot of pressure on the team. For years, they have always been so close and yet so far. On paper, RCB have had the strongest batting line-up of all other teams, yet, they have failed to deliver time and again.

Between 2011 and 2017, RCB boasted of the deadliest batting line-up. To be precise, joining Virat Kohli was South Africa's AB de Villiers and West Indian giant, Chris Gayle.

Inspite of this, and Gayle smashing a few centuries here and there, RCB almost always bottled the job.

So, will the 2019 season be any different? Can captain Virat Kohli inspire his men to rally forth into victory? Or will Virat Kohli and the RCB squad succumb to defeat yet again, as was the case all these years?

Virat Kohli

Profile Virat Kohli has had an impressive career since making his debut in the Indian team in 2008. He first broke into the national side in ODIs, soon followed by a 2010 debut in T20s and a Test debut in 2011. Since then, his rise has been meteoric and he eventually took the mantle of India captain from MS Dhoni. ODI captaincy was up first in 2013, followed by Test captaincy when MS Dhoni announced his retirement in 2014. Finally, Virat Kohli was appointed T20 skipper in 2017. IPL Career Virat Kohli made his IPL debut back in 2008 itself for Royal Challengers Bangalore. Since then, he has remained in the team all these years. After an average debut season, his form picked up in subsequent years. For two straight seasons, he was in the top 3 of highest run-scorers in IPL. In 2011, he was promoted to vice captain and even took over as skipper when regular, Daniel Vettori was injured. When the latter retired in 2013, Kohli took the mantle of RCB captain, and has led the side ever since. Now, for IPL 2019, Virat Kohli heads into the new season as the captain once again. Expectations for IPL 2019 With regard to expectations, there is a lot of pressure on the team. For years, they have always been so close and yet so far. On paper, RCB have had the strongest batting line-up of all other teams, yet, they have failed to deliver time and again. Between 2011 and 2017, RCB boasted of the deadliest batting line-up. To be precise, joining Virat Kohli was South Africa&#8217;s AB de Villiers and West Indian giant, Chris Gayle. Inspite of this, and Gayle smashing a few centuries here and there, RCB almost always bottled the job. So, will the 2019 season be any different? Can captain Virat Kohli inspire his men to rally forth into victory? Or will Virat Kohli and the RCB squad succumb to defeat yet again, as was the case all these years?