As the IPL 2024 league stage draws to a close, the 70th match between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) promises to be a thrilling encounter. With both teams having much at stake, this match could play a crucial role in shaping the final playoff standings.
Current Form and Stakes
Rajasthan Royals find themselves in a precarious situation, having qualified for the playoffs but on the back of four consecutive losses. A win against KKR could potentially secure them a top-two finish, provided other results go their way. The absence of Jos Buttler, who has returned for international duties, has left a significant void at the top of the order, making RR’s task even more challenging.
On the other hand, KKR have been in a purple patch, with their only hiccup being a rain-abandoned match. Their middle-order and spin attack have found form at the right time, making them a formidable opponent. KKR will be looking to continue their winning streak and avenge their earlier loss to RR this season.
Head to Head
- Total Matches Played: 28
- Rajasthan Royals Wins: 14
- Kolkata Knight Riders Wins: 14
The head-to-head record is evenly poised at 14-14, highlighting the competitive nature of clashes between these two sides.
Venue: Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati
What to Expect: The last match played at this venue saw a low and skiddy pitch, contrary to the usual high-scoring nature associated with Guwahati. With wet weather leading up to the game and a fresh pitch in use, expect conditions to favor the bowlers slightly. Scattered thunderstorms are forecasted for match day, which could further impact the playing conditions.
Rajasthan Royals Team Watch
Injuries/Availability: No reported injury concerns.
Tactics & Matchups:
- Batting First: Improving their first-innings totals will be key, as three of their five defeats have come when setting a target. Their average first-innings score of 172 is among the lowest this season.
- Opening Slot: Tom Kohler-Cadmore is likely to continue opening, despite a quiet debut. However, there are other players in the squad who could step up if needed.
Probable XI:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Tom Kohler-Cadmore
- Sanju Samson (c & wk)
- Riyan Parag
- Dhruv Jurel
- Rovman Powell
- Ravichandran Ashwin
- Trent Boult
- Sandeep Sharma
- Avesh Khan
- Yuzvendra Chahal
- [Impact Player: Nandre Burger/Donovan Ferreira]
Kolkata Knight Riders Team Watch
Injuries/Availability: No reported injury concerns.
Tactics & Matchups:
- Captain’s Form: Shreyas Iyer’s form has been a concern. Improving his strike rate and consistency will be crucial for KKR’s batting strength.
- Opening Swap: Rahmanullah Gurbaz is expected to replace Phil Salt at the top of the order, adding more firepower to the batting lineup.
Probable XI:
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk)
- Sunil Narine
- Venkatesh Iyer
- Shreyas Iyer (c)
- Rinku Singh
- Nitish Rana
- Andre Russell
- Ramandeep Singh
- Mitchell Starc
- Harshit Rana
- Varun Chakaravarthy
- [Impact Player: Vaibhav Arora/Suyash Sharma]
Match Prediction
While Rajasthan Royals have struggled recently, they remain a strong side capable of bouncing back. However, KKR’s current form and momentum make them slight favorites for this clash. The absence of Jos Buttler for RR and KKR’s well-rounded unit could tilt the balance in favor of the Knight Riders.
Prediction: Kolkata Knight Riders to win, but expect a closely contested match with potential weather interruptions playing a role.
Fans can anticipate a thrilling encounter as both teams vie for crucial points and momentum heading into the playoffs.