The No.5 batter plays an important role in a T20 batting line-up. This batter must be able to take on the bowlers easily. He must also be a good power-hitter and must take the onus to finish the innings. At the moment, one of the best examples of a No.5 T20 batter is Heinrich Klaasen. However, a few teams could have an issue in IPL 2024. On that note, here, we take a look at three teams which could have a problem with the No.5 batting slot for IPL 2024.
1) Delhi Capitals
Delhi Capitals would have had a reliable No.5 in the form of Harry Brook. However, the player has pulled out of IPL 2024. Tristan Stubbs is more of a No.6 batter and it is not sure if he can tackle the spinners if there are some early wickets lost.
Axar Patel is an obvious choice here. However, he does not have the experience of handling this role often. Plus, he could struggle against high-end pace. Hence, DC could have some issues.
2) Punjab Kings
Will it be Jitesh Sharma or Liam Livingstone who will be the team’s No.5 batter for IPL 2024? Either way, it could be an issue for PBKS.
Jitesh has definitely done well but there could be questions about consistency. On the other hand, in Livingstone’s case, the problem is with his current form, which is not great.
3) Royal Challengers Bangalore
RCB is one of the teams which could have a problem with the No.5 batting slot for IPL 2024. Andy Flower has more or less confirmed that it will be Cameron Green will operate at No.5.
Last season, he struggled to do well at around this slot for Mumbai Indians. When he played up the order, he was a success. However, if Cameron Green goes up the order for RCB, it will mess up their batting order.
