The league campaign of the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL) has concluded, with Mumbai Indians securing the final qualification spot. Mumbai Indians owe their thanks to Gujarat Titans, as their victory over Royal Challengers Bangalore proved crucial in pushing Mumbai Indians into the playoffs. Throughout the campaign, several players seized the opportunities given to them and delivered exceptional performances. Before the IPL 2023 playoffs commence, let’s take a look at the Best XI of the league stage.
Faf du Plessis: Faf du Plessis had an outstanding IPL season, emerging as the top-scoring batter. Despite his impressive performances, Royal Challengers Bangalore couldn’t make it to the playoffs. Du Plessis scored 730 runs in 14 matches, with an average of 56.15 and a strike rate of 153.68, including eight fifties.
Shubman Gill: Shubman Gill proved to be a difference-maker for Gujarat Titans, especially in crucial matches towards the end of the league stage. He scored 680 runs in 14 matches at an average of 56.67 and a strike rate of 152.46. Gill’s two centuries in the last two matches helped Gujarat Titans secure their playoff spot.
Virat Kohli: Despite being an opener, Virat Kohli comes in at the No. 3 spot due to his ability to anchor the innings and finish matches. Kohli scored 639 runs in 14 matches, averaging 53.25, and maintaining a strike rate of 139.82. He scored two centuries and six half-centuries but couldn’t guide Royal Challengers Bangalore to the playoffs.
Suryakumar Yadav: Suryakumar Yadav, known for his consistency, occupied the No. 4 spot in the team. After a slow start, Yadav overcame his struggles and surpassed the 500-run mark comfortably. He scored 511 runs in 14 matches at an average of 42.58 and an impressive strike rate of 185.14, including one century and four half-centuries.
Heinrich Klaasen: Heinrich Klaasen made a significant impact as a wicket-keeper batsman, even though his team, Sunrisers Hyderabad, didn’t perform well overall. Klaasen was the standout performer for his franchise, scoring 448 runs in 12 matches at an average of 49.78 and a strike rate of 177.07, including one century and two half-centuries.
Rinku Singh: Rinku Singh earns the No. 6 spot as the “finisher of the season.” His exceptional performances played a crucial role in Kolkata Knight Riders’ campaign. Singh scored 474 runs in 14 matches at an average of 59.25 and a strike rate of 139.52, including four half-centuries.
Rashid Khan: Rashid Khan, the Afghanistan all-rounder, showcased his skills with both bat and ball. He strengthened his bowling prowess and started contributing significantly with the bat as well. Rashid scored 95 runs at a strike rate of 237.50 and took 24 wickets in 14 matches, with an economy rate of 7.82 and an average of 18.25.
Mohammed Shami: Mohammed Shami was outstanding with the new ball, consistently taking wickets for Gujarat Titans. His experience proved crucial as he emerged as a match-winner. Shami took 24 wickets in 14 matches, with an average of 17.66 and an economy rate of 7.70.
Piyush Chawla: Veteran spinner Piyush Chawla surprised many by being among the top wicket-takers in the tournament. His exceptional performances played a significant role in Mumbai Indians’ qualification for the playoffs. Chawla took 20 wickets in 14 matches, maintaining an economy rate of 7.81 and an average of 21.10.
Yuzvendra Chahal: Yuzvendra Chahal continued to impress with his spin bowling, consistently taking crucial wickets for Rajasthan Royals. He was a reliable wicket-taker throughout the campaign. Chahal took 21 wickets in 14 matches, with an average of 20.57 and an economy rate of 8.17.
Tushar Deshpande: Tushar Deshpande, a rising talent from Chennai Super Kings, emerged as a critical wicket-taker for the team during powerplays. In the absence of Deepak Chahar, Deshpande showcased his potential and became a valuable asset for CSK. Bigger things may be in store for Deshpande if he continues his impressive performances.
These players formed the Best XI of the league stage in the IPL 2023, displaying exceptional skills, consistency, and match-winning performances.
