Sharjah: Royal Challengers Bangalore are all set to take Kolkata Knight Riders in the Eliminator of the Indian Premier League on Monday at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. The match itself is a big one for RCB skipper Virat Kohli, who has decided to step down from captaincy after this edition and having led the side to the finals in 2016 alongside to the play-offs twice in 2015 and 2020, and The Indian national team captain would like to end things on a high note.
For Eoin Morgan, the KKR skipper, its about the regaining of lost glory of the side who won a couple of titles in a space of three years in 2012 and 2014.Both the sides are are equally matched on paper, however, KKR’s late resurgence in second phase of the tournament, despite a bad start to the campaign could be a key factor.
Kolkata also have a slight advantage in the bowling department as the unit performed fairly well collectively in this season compare to their opponents, Bangalore who will largely be dependent on Harshal Patel, the current “Purple Cap” holder having gone through a sensational campaign.
For Kolkata, the key will be their top three comprising Subhman Gill,Venkatesh Iyer and Rahul Tripathi, all of whom have been fairly consistent especially in the UAE phase. Southpaw Venkatesh has been seen by the side as their missing piece of the puzzle at the top providing quick fire starts. While Subhman Gill’s ability to hold the innings and play his strokes according to the game plan complements well.
The return of Sunil Narine at the right point is a good thing for while Tim Southee’s inclusion in place of Andre Russell is also an added benefit. Shivam Mavi and Lockie Ferguson both were right on the money in the last few games.
For RCB, Mohammed Siraj Holds the key for the side at death while Yuzvendra Chahal did answer his critics picking up 16 wickets this season. Virat Kohli will look the lead the batting line up with Glenn Maxwell coming in handy at the middle order. AB de Villiers despite not the having the best of the run so far should not be taken for granted as his calibre and experience can hurt any opposing line up.
