On April 2, the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and the Mumbai Indians (MI) will face off in the fifth game of IPL 2023 at Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. RCB finished fourth last season after winning eight of 14 games and qualifying for the playoffs for the third consecutive year. They made some strategic moves in the mini-auction, spending INR 1.9 crores on English pacer Reece Topley and INR 3.2 crores on Will Jacks, who has been ruled out of the tournament due to a thigh injury and replaced by Michael Bracewell. MI, the IPL’s most successful franchise, finished last in 2021, winning just four of 14 games, and traded Jason Behrendorff from RCB before the mini-auction. In the auction, they acquired Cameron Green for INR 17.5 crores, making him the second-most expensive player in the auction’s history, and seven other players. Jasprit Bumrah, MI’s star player, is out of the competition due to injury and has been replaced by Sandeep Warrier.
If you’re a fantasy cricket player gearing up for the RCB vs MI IPL 2023 match, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is choosing the right bowlers for your team. To help you out, here are the three best bowlers to consider for your fantasy team.
1. Reece Topley
Reece Topley, the left-arm pacer for RCB, was among the leading wicket-takers for England in T20Is last year. In 16 matches, he took 17 wickets with an average of 28, an economy of 7.8, and a strike rate of 21.5. As a result, he has become a key player to watch out for from RCB’s squad this season. Topley’s left-arm pace and ability to swing the ball make him a potent weapon in the bowling department. His accurate line and length could make it difficult for opposing batsmen to score runs. Furthermore, his experience in international cricket could come in handy in high-pressure situations. Topley’s performance could play a significant role in RCB’s success this season. If he can replicate his international form, he could be a match-winner for RCB. Fans will be eagerly anticipating his performances in the upcoming matches.
2. Jofra Archer
Last year, the Mumbai Indians acquired Jofra Archer for INR 8 crore in the IPL mega-auction, even though he was unable to participate in the 2022 season due to injury. However, the five-time champions are now preparing to add Archer to their roster. Archer has played 35 IPL matches, all for the Rajasthan Royals, and has taken 46 wickets at an economy rate of 7.13. Following his recent comeback, the IPL will be his first significant competition. Archer will be eager to demonstrate his abilities and could potentially dominate opposing teams this year. His participation could significantly improve Mumbai Indians’ chances of winning the tournament. Fans will be anticipating Archer’s performances in the upcoming matches.
3. Harshal Patel
Harshal Patel, a key player for Royal Challengers Bangalore, will be aiming to replicate his impressive performance from the last IPL as he gears up for the 16th edition of the tournament. The 32-year-old pacer took 19 wickets in 15 games in IPL 2022 and played a crucial role in RCB’s campaign. Patel will be eager to continue his form and make this season a memorable one for himself and his team. He has been a consistent performer in the domestic circuit and earned a spot in the Indian T20 squad recently. With his experience and skill set, Patel is a valuable asset to RCB’s bowling attack. The right-arm medium-fast bowler has been known for his variations, especially his slower balls, and can be lethal in the death overs. Besides his bowling, Patel has also shown his batting prowess, which adds to his all-round value. Overall, Patel’s contribution will be vital for RCB’s success in the upcoming IPL.