The defending champions, it really should have been obvious that Rajasthan Royals would win the inaugural competition. After all, they are led exclusively by Shane Warne, a man well versed in having his cake and eating it all. A triumph of team cricket, they'll be given more respect this time round, especially after gaining the celebrity backing of Bollywood honey Shilpa Shetty. Showing a ruthless streak of champions, they have cut seven players adrift before the start of this year's competition, including Mohammad Kaif and more surprisingly Paras Dogra. And in terms of personnel, Shane Warne is captain, coach, cook etc.

A team represented by two modern all action men of India, Virender Sehwag and Akshey Kumar. Akshay, once known as the action hero of Bollywood, continues to astound audiences with his talent whilst Virender's all action approach to batting continues to dumbfound bowlers around the world. Semi-finalists last year, they will be looking to go all the way this year. But will Sehwag's uncomplicated method of captaining be enough to lead his side to victory? With Gautam Gambhir as his opening partner, new kid on the block David Warner and all time legend Glenn McGrath in the ranks, it should be a good tournament. Greg Shippard will be taking up coaching duties.