The cricketer-turned commentator’s first pick is Sunrisers Hyderabad captain David Warner. Aakash Chopra lauded Warner for his ‘unique’ ability to adapt to Indian conditions.

Warner was the top-scorer for Sunrisers Hyderabad last season, amassing 548 runs at an average of 39.14. Aakash Chopra expects the left-hander to have another productive campaign this season:

Aakash Chopra’s second overseas pick is leg spinner, Rashid Khan. A key member of the Orange Army, Khan, took 20 wickets last season at a brilliant average of 17.2.

Aakash Chopra feels that the spin-friendly wickets in Chennai and Delhi could see Rashid Khan hit the ground running. The former opener also predicted Khan to win the Purple Cap this season, saying:

Next on Aakash Chopra’s list is Chennai Super Kings (CSK) all-rounder Sam Curran. Curran impressed all and sundry with his all-round show last season, taking 13 wickets and scoring 186 runs.

Chopra suggested that CSK captain MS Dhoni is almost a ‘fan’ of the English youngster and could make great use of his bowling, batting and versatility this season. He said in this regard:

Expect AB de Villiers to leave an indelible mark this IPL season: Aakash Chopra

Aakash Chopra hailed AB de Villiers as a man from another planet for his ability to thrive in high-pressure situations.

Chopra urged the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) not to tinker with De Villiers’ batting position and let him leave an ‘indelible’ impression in IPL 2021.

Meanwhile, Marcus Stoinis scored 352 runs and took 13 wickets in IPL 2020 for the Delhi Capitals. Aakash Chopra feels the Australian all-rounder could pick up from where he left last season and do a brilliant job in the absence of Shreyas Iyer.

Finally, Aakash Chopra picked Punjab Kings’ swashbuckling batsman Nicholas Pooran as one of the probable top overseas performers in IPL 2021.

Aakash Chopra termed Nicholas Pooran one of the most ‘fascinating talents’ and added that he could be instrumental for his franchise’s success this year.

The IPL 2021 season kicks off on April 9 in Chennai with a clash between two-time defending champions Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore.

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