Analyzing the Best Formed IPL Team Post 2021 Auctions
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is arguably the most competitive club cricket tournament in the world. Given the significant expenditure on player auctions, determining the best team post-2021 can be a challenging task. After closely analyzing the squads of all eight teams, here is a detailed breakdown of each team's strengths and weaknesses.
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
Starting with Royal Challengers Bangalore, despite picking up Maxi and Richardson, their form can be questionable. While their batting line-up is solid, the effectiveness of these new signings remains doubtful. Additionally, Virat Kohli's performance over the past two years has been inconsistent, scoring well in just 5-6 out of 14 matches. Moreover, the bowlers at the Chintan Kumar Swami Stadium often struggle to contain top-order batsmen like Yuzvendra Chahal and ABD.
However, the consistent performances of Paddikal and AB Dell then tip the scales slightly in RCB's favor, nudging them to the 6th position in my assessment.
Delhi Capitals (DC)
Delhi Capitals stand out among the other teams due to their strong opening pair and middle-order batsmen. The addition of Anrich Nortje and Kagiso Rabada in the fast-bowling department further strengthens their attack, making DC a formidable team. If the top-order falters, the middle-order can pave the way, and if they too stagnate, the experienced lower-order can pull through. This depth at all levels of the team is a significant advantage.
Mumbai Indians (MI)
Mumbai Indians present a well-rounded squad. If the top-order fails, the middle-order can step up, and if even that falters, a robust lower-order can ensure continuity. The fast bowlers - James Pattinson and Jhr Mills - combined with Shannon Architects (Kevin) take the team to the next level. Even the all-around performance of pacers like Mohammed Shami and KT J ideas (Dhawan) has added to their defensive capabilities.
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
Sunrisers Hyderabad also boasts one of the best-balanced squads. They cover all conceivable loopholes, ensuring that no aspect of the team is left wanting. Given the depth and quality of players present, they are positioned strongly at the 3rd spot in this analysis.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) vs. Rajasthan Royals (RR)
Both KKR and RR did an excellent job at the 2021 auction, virtually filling all gaps in their team. KKR, in particular, impressed with their strategic buys. According to Brad Hogg’s analysis, experienced players like Harbhajan Singh were brought in, along with criminally underrated all-rounder Ben Cutting. The enthusiasm of KKR to draft Cutting underlines their commitment to improving the team. Despite criticisms regarding RR spending huge amounts on Chris Morris, the management's efforts to integrate Morris into their strategy for reinforcing fast bowling has been commendable. Additionally, RR's management confirmed that they were interested in Morris to assist Jofra Archer, indicating foresight in team-building.
Overall, while RR gets bookings for spending significantly on Morris, the team’s overall structure and strategic approach indicate a strong team. The balance between youth and experience, as well as tailored plans for different scenarios, positions RR among the best.
Therefore, after considering all factors, DC emerges as the best formed team post-2021 auctions, followed closely by MI, SRH, and the strong KKR/RR combination.