IPL 2024: Aakash Chopra picks his No.1 ranked opening pair for upcoming season

Aakash Chopra. (Photo Source: Twitter)

As the countdown begins for the commencement of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, cricket fans are buzzing with excitement, eager to witness which players will dominate the tournament.  As the teams gear up for another exciting season, the spotlight is on the opening partnerships that can set the tone for their respective campaigns.

While the dynamic duo of Ishan Kishan and Rohit Sharma is undoubtedly formidable, former Indian cricket star Aakash Chopra has a different take on the potential top-ranked opening pair of the tournament.

In his recent YouTube video, Chopra shared his insights on the opening combinations that could dominate the IPL 2024. He believes that the Rajasthan Royals’ opening duo of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Jos Buttler could be ranked as the best in the tournament.

Also read: Aakash Chopra reflects on Rajasthan Royals’ chances ahead of IPL 2024

You bat at a different level: Aakash Chopra

Chopra’s analysis is based on Jaiswal’s remarkable form and Buttler’s ability to bounce back after an underwhelming previous season. “When you head into a tournament with such confidence, you bat at a different level, which he did last year as well, but will do with more maturity this year, I feel Rajasthan’s opening combination of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Jos Buttler is amazing. It could be ranked No. 1. I am saying that firstly because of Yashasvi Jaiswal’s current form. It means his 600-plus IPL season is almost loading,” said Chopra on his YouTube channel.

Chopra further highlighted Buttler’s potential return after an ordinary IPL 2023. “Along with him Jos Buttler, who had a very ordinary season last year. After that, he did well in the SA20, and for how long will you keep Buttler quiet?”

Buttler’s recent success in the SA20 league has fueled optimism that he could rediscover his batting skills in IPL 2024. While acknowledging the Rajasthan Royals’ opening pair as his top pick, Chopra also recognized the consistency of the Chennai Super Kings’ openers, Devon Conway and Ruturaj Gaikwad. However, in the latest developments, Conway has been ruled out of IPL 2024 due to a thumb injury.

Also read: Aakash Chopra comes hard at Pat Cummins’ appointment as SRH captain

As the curtain-raiser of IPL 2024 approaches, with the defending champions Chennai Super Kings taking on the Royal Challengers Bangalore on March 22nd in Chennai, all eyes will be on the opening partnerships.