IPL 2023 is set to start on March 31st. In the last edition, it was difficult to make predictions as all the squads had been assembled at the mega-auctions. Many of the predictions that were made also did not exactly hit the bulls-eye. Nevertheless, there is now more clarity on where teams stand in the competition. In this series of IPL 2023 Predictions, we look at four teams that could qualify for the playoffs of the upcoming season.
1) Lucknow Super Giants
LSG had one of the most balanced units after the mega-auctions. They did justice to that by reaching the playoffs. However, this time around, they could look to better their record.
LSG has an issue with the fitness of Mohsin Khan but Jaydev Unadkat is in decent form and can be a good backup. Mark Wood will represent the franchise and that’s already a big win. While Ravi Bishnoi and Krunal Pandya will continue to lead the spin attack, there would be a focus on Avesh Khan to step up. In the batting unit, KL Rahul must lead the line-up while Deepak Hooda and Marcus Stoinis would be the other important pillars in the setup.
2) Gujarat Titans
Gujarat Titans are one of the teams that could qualify for the playoffs of the upcoming season. Almost no one expected them to reach the playoffs, let alone win the season in IPL 2022. However, that happened.
The team has only got better with IPL 2023 Auctions. Kane Williamson slots in the top order, which would give a lot of experience and solidity to the batting unit. The option of KS Bharat as a possible opening wicket-keeper option should also help the team. Shivam Mavi is another crucial pick that the franchise made before the upcoming season. These reasons make GT a possible playoff contender.
3) Rajasthan Royals
Rajasthan Royals reached the finals of IPL 2022. They are one team that has all the bases covered and will look to win IPL 2023. Prasidh Krishna is not available and this would be the main concern for the squad.
The batting line-up is in top form, especially the domestic cricketers such as Yashasvi Jaiswal and Riyan Parag. This would give a lot of support to Jos Buttler and Sanju Samson. R Ashwin and Yuzvendra Chahal form the best spin partnership in the league while Obed McCoy, Trent Boult and Kuldeep Sen will do the duties as pacers. Jason Holder will also add value to this squad.
4) Chennai Super Kings
CSK is also one of the teams that could qualify for the playoffs of the upcoming season. The franchise is known for comebacks and fans will expect another one in IPL 2023.
The squad composition, especially the bowling unit, is suited well to the Chepauk Stadium. There is a lot of experience in the setup and there are quite a few players looking to make a statement. MS Dhoni is possibly playing his last season and that would further heighten the context of this season for the players. Therefore, CSK is also on this list.
