The IPL is a sporting event that is unique to India, and every year we very much look forward to the season. Over the years, it has seeped into the Indian culture. With the eleventh edition of Indian Premier League edition on the horizon, let's look at how IPL teams stack up.

The defending champions are the title favourites this year. The three-time champions, MI have a balanced squad with all bases covered to go all the way. With the likes of the Rohit Sharma, Evin Lewis, Pandya Brothers and Keiron Pollard in the ranks, their batting looks sorted. The bowling boasts Cummins, Mustafizur and Bumrah.

Best result

Winner: 2013, 2015, 2017

Runner-up: 2010

Betting odds

bet365: 4 ; skybet: 9/2; Betfair: 7/2

RCB are referred to as “chokers, underrated and losing finalists.” Led by Virat Kohli, they look well placed to shake off these tags after bolstering the bowling in the pre-season transfer window. Their chances of winning are only next to Mumbai Indians.

Best result

Runner-up: 2009, 2011, 2016

Betting odds

bet365: 4; skybet: 4; Betfair: 4

The absence of David Warner would hurt SRH, for he had been the mainstay of the batting and an exceptional leader. But, the Hyderabad-based franchise does have better balance than most of the other sides in the competition. They have third best odds to win IPL 2018.

Best result

Winner: 2016

Betting odds

bet365: 6; skybet: 13/2; betfair: 6

CSK is back in the fold, and with their old tried-and-tested bunch – Dhoni, Raina, Jadeja and Bravo. They might find it difficult to replicate the glory days, but do have the gas to make it to the playoffs.

Best result

Winner: 2010, 2011,

Runner-up: 2008, 2012, 2013, 2015

Betting odds

bet365: 13/2; skybet: 6; betfair: 6

KKR have let go of their commander who helped them win two titles. Nevertheless, they still have enough firepower in their ranks with Lynn, Russell and Narine in the mix. But, they are short on reinforcements. There is an outside chance of them making the playoffs.

Best result

Winner: 2012, 2014

Betting odds

bet365: 13/2; skybet: 5; Betfair: 7

RR have lost Steve Smith to the sandpapergate fiasco, but have got hold of an excellent X-factor in Klaasen. And, they have Stokes, Buttler and Rahane to win games all by themselves. At their best, they will be a mid-table team.

Best result

Winner: 2008

Betting odds

bet365: 8; skybet: 9; Betfair: 8

DD have done some smart business at this year's auction, buying Gambhir, Maxwell and Munro. Plus, they have Rabada and Morris in their ranks. However, there is uncertainty over how far they can go.

Betting odds

bet365: 8; skybet: 8; betfair: 8

KXIP have gambled, handing Ashwin the captaincy and picking Gayle. If only they get their punt right, KXIP will have a chance in the tournament. They are least likely winners of IPL's eleventh edition as per the betting houses.

Best result

Runner-up: 2014

Betting odds

bet365: 17/2; skybet: 8; Betfair: 9

Source: Oddschecker