IPL 2014: The bowlers who could be a batsman's nightmare

A look at the bowlers on whom the teams shall rely on for the early breakthrough and containment of runs. (BCCI Photos)

Lasith Malinga has a history of performing well in this format. Mumbai Indians have always looked to him for early wickets. Malinga is also effective with the old ball and his yorkers have been a menace to several top players.

Mitchell Johnson is known to get his victims through sheer pace. Even in a the T02 version, Johnson has shown that he can use pace as a potent weapon. A hint of swing is an added bonus to his arsenal.

Dwayne Bravo is the kind of bowler one can rely on pull things back in the middle overs. Bravo's nagging line and length more often than not leads to wickets for ihs team.

Sunil Narine's claim to fame came in the 2012 edition. This man is known to stifle the opponents by keeping the runs down. He is also a partnership breaker and is known to get wickets at critical junctures in the game.

The good thing about Dale Steyn is that the format makes no difference to him. He runs in, and simply bowls without any hassle. It shows that while T20 may be about innovations, sometimes it is best to stick to the basics.