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The Indian Premier League (IPL) will continue its legacy into its 17th year in 2024, cementing its status as one of the world’s most popular franchise cricket leagues, evolving and refining its spectacle with each passing season.
Historical context
The tournament’s inaugural edition in 2008 saw the Rajasthan Royals (RR) clinch the title, but since then, they have remained elusive of further triumphs. In the 2023 final, the then-defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) clashed with MS Dhoni‘s Chennai Super Kings (CSK), with the latter emerging victorious, securing their fifth IPL title – a record they share with their arch-rivals, the Mumbai Indians (MI).
Speculations and anticipation
As anticipation brews for the action-packed season ahead, cricket pundits have begun their speculations on the potential contenders for the coveted title among the league’s 10 teams. Former Indian pacer Praveen Kumar recently joined the bandwagon, revealing his prediction for the IPL 2024 winner.
Also READ: Not CSK! Robin Uthappa picks a team he wants to see win IPL 2024
Praveen Kumar’s bold prediction: IPL 2024 winner
During a recent appearance on Shubhankar Mishra‘s show, former Indian cricketer Praveen made a bold prediction for IPL 2024. Placing his bet on Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Praveen confidently forecasted their victory in the tournament. When asked about his choice, Praveen responded with unwavering certainty, stating, “This time, the RCB team will win, but don’t ask why; RCB just came out of my mouth. It is 7 o’clock in the evening. Let’s see, this time RCB will win,”
Praveen Kumar said -"This time RCB will win IPL 2024 for sure" pic.twitter.com/BuyAiEkEEQ
— Virat Kohli Fan Club (@Trend_VKohli) March 15, 2024
Talent, expectations, and challenges ahead
While the RCB have always boasted a star-studded squad in the IPL including the likes of Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers, their inability to secure the trophy despite their talent epitomizes a collective shortfall in executing pivotal moments. Despite reaching the finals thrice, they faltered when it mattered most. Last season, despite flashes of brilliance, they finished sixth and missed out on playoff contention. This time RCB will commence their campaign in the tournament opener against the five-time champions CSK at the Chepauk Stadium in Chennai on March 22.
