IPL 2019 Fantasy: CSK's Shane Watson, Sunrisers' Rashid Khan must-haves and other top tips for round one

Instead of picking teams on a daily basis, fantasy managers now have to set up their sides per round and that could involve a lot more planning.

Fortunately, we’ll be with you every step of the way with our tips and picks to guide you through each round.

Without further adieu, here’s what we’ve been thinking for round one.

TOP TIP FOR ROUND 1

Don’t go RCB-heavy

Royal Challengers Bangalore have some big names on their roster and regardless of the opposition, Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers are bound to feature in most fantasy teams.

However, even though you’re allowed to have a maximum of seven players from a single team, you don’t want to be too RCB-heavy. Kohli’s side take on Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians in the first round, teams that have six IPL titles between them. Tread carefully.

BATSMEN

Shane Watson – Chennai Super Kings (10.5)

He famously scored a superb ton in the final last season. The Aussie’s also a nailed on opener for CSK so has the potential to face a lot of deliveries. Given his stunning form in the recently concluded Pakistan Super League, which he finished as top scorer, he’s a must-have in IPL fantasy.

AB de Villiers – Royal Challengers Bangalore (10.5)

After his stunning form in the BPL and PSL this year, De Villiers should be set to deliver for RCB as well. He’s an elite batsman who can excel even against top opposition and RCB will need him to do just that in this round.

Shubman Gill – Kolkata Knight Riders (8.5)

For a cheaper option now, how about turning to the young but supremely talented Shubman Gill? Operating at the top of the order for KKR, the 19-year-old will be eager to justify the hype around him and perhaps even force himself into consideration for the World Cup.

BOWLERS

Rashid Khan – Sunrisers Hyderabad (9.5)

As far as bowlers go, Rashid Khan should be the first one you pick up for your fantasy team. With an average of 15.37 in T20s, the spinner is one of Sunrisers’ most prized assets.

Jasprit Bumrah – Mumbai Indians (9.5)

With plenty of pace and the ability to bowl quality bouncers or yorkers, Bumrah looks set to shine this season. He hasn’t been the most consistent in previous IPL editions but, at 25 and now India’s spearhead, this may be his time.

Sandeep Lamichhane – Delhi Capitals (8.5)

Following a fine season last year, Lamichhane is certainly one to consider. The 18-year-old impressed on occasion in the PSL recently, picking up 4-10 against eventual champions Quetta Gladiators.

ALL-ROUNDERS

Kedar Jadhav – Chennai Super Kings (8.5) 

Always capable of accelerating as an attacking middle-order batsman, Jadhav plays with freedom in a strong CSK outfit. MS Dhoni often turns to his off-break to pick up wickets as well but he can go for big runs in the process.

Sunil Narine – Kolkata Knight Riders (10.5) 

The mystery spinner is a legend in the IPL with his wicket-taking ability bolstered by his explosive batting at the top of the order. He was key to KKR’s title wins in 2012 and 2014. He’s been in excellent form in the BPL this year although he missed the PSL through injury.

WICKETKEEPERS

MS Dhoni – Chennai Super Kings (9.5)

Experienced, reliable and fighting to keep his place in the India team ahead of the World Cup. Dhoni almost guarantees points.

Jos Buttler – Rajasthan Royals (10)

Came into his own last season and ended with 548 runs at an average of 54.80. The Royals will bank on him to give them good starts and he has been in impressive form of late, scoring 150 off just 77 balls in an ODI against the West Indies last month.

CAPTAIN – Shane Watson

VICE-CAPTAIN – Sunil Narine