IPL 2022: Predicted playing XI of inaugural champions Rajasthan Royals

With 254 runs in seven IPL games last year at a strike rate of 153, Jos Buttler couldn't perform as per his lofty standards but the Royals nonetheless retained him, owing to what he brings to the table. 

A destructive wicket-keeper batsman, who can open the innings and win games on his own, Buttler will be one of the mainstays for the Rajasthan franchise this term. 

At INR 7.75 crore, Devdutt Padikkal might be a tad bit expensive but Rajasthan Royals can rest assured that they've invested in the future. Having made his India debut last year, Padikkal had a stellar season with RCB last term, amassing 411 runs in 14 IPL games at an average of 31. 

In his first year as Rajasthan Royals' captain last term, Sanju Samson did everything right but couldn't guide his team to the playoffs. Having scored 484 runs in 14 games at an average of 40, he was retained by the franchise and will be key once again this season. 

Rassie van der Dussen may miss the initial couple of games owing to South Africa's upcoming limited overs series against Bangladesh. However, once he's available he could be a key player. The Proteas batsman has the ability to play a decent anchor's role, which was evident against India as well when the Men in Blue were on their tour of the rainbow nation. 

The Caribbean all-rounder went for big bucks as Rajasthan Royals acquired his services for a whopping INR 8.5 crore. The 25-year-old is a good player of spin and has the ability to hit the ball out of the park. There will be a lot of responsibility on Hetmyer as the team will rely on his experience in the middle order. 

Rajasthan Royals appear mighty impressed with Riyan Paras as they outbid Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Delhi Capitals (DC) and Gujarat Titans (GT) to acquire Parag's signature once again, for a price of INR 3.8 crore. The Assamese lad has been a constant feature in the past couple of years and will be looking for further opportunities this season. 

New Zealand all-rounder James Neesham was picked up by Rajasthan Royals for a price of INR 1.5 crore which is definitely a steal for a player of his experience. Neesham is a decent contributor with the bat and ball, and he had a stellar T20 World Cup last year. He hasn't set the world alight in IPL so far, but given the money they spent, the franchise seems to have pulled off a coup. 

Another shrewd addition to the Rajasthan Royals ranks, the franchise signed team India veteran Ravichandran Ashwin for just INR 5 crore which judging by his recent performances for India isn't too bad. Given his experience, Ashwin can also contribute off the field, as a mentor for all the young players. 

Signing young Indian pacer Prasidh Krishna was perhaps a statement of intent from the Royals. The 25-year-old gave a good account of himself in the Indian jersey against West Indies and judging by his recent performances the Karnataka bowler will prove to be worthy every penny of his price tag of INR 10 crore. 

Rajasthan Royals fended off another intense bidding war to get their hands on Trent Boul who has plenty of experience playing in the IPL. He was a key cog in Mumbai Indians' (MI) machine and has the ability to do some real damage with the new ball. 

Another superstar in his own right, Yuzvendra Chahal was picked up by Rajasthan Royals for a paltry INR 6.5 crore, and he could be a match-winner. The 31-year-old still has quite a few seasons in him, and recently, he's been in good touch for India as well. The Royals should be happy with their business in the mega auction, they now only need this team to deliver, where it matters.