Kolkata: Royal Challengers Bangalore will be more confident when they face a top-heavy newcomers Lucknow Super Giants in the qualifier 2 on Wednesday, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, owing to Virat Kohli’s return to form and a very spectacular admission into the IPL play-offs.
Kohli regained his flow on way to a stunning 54-ball 73 in their previous encounter against Gujarat Titans, after a run of low scores.
As RCB kept their hopes alive with a superb win, this was his only second fifty of the season, a visual delight for the eyes that encompassed all the Kohli-esque smashes.
However, their destiny remained out of their hands as they awaited for Mumbai Indians victory over the Delhi Capitals to guarantee a place in the play-offs.
Kohli’s return to form will be a huge boost for their top-order, which has struggled to get going in the power play in the past.
With Dinesh Karthik’s new-found finishing prowess, a quality pace trio in Josh Hazlewood, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Harshal Patel ready to take advantage of the seam-friendly Eden conditions, and Faf du Plessis’s calm and astute captaincy, RCB will be optimistic in their pursuit of an elusive IPL title.
RCB, who have appeared in three IPL finals, are a star-studded team that has often failed to meet the expectations of its supporters. However, RCB appear to be better balanced this season, particularly in terms of speed bowling. Another major bonus for RCB this season has been India veteran wicketkeeper-batsman Karthik’s improved batting form, which has assured an India comeback ahead of the T20 World Cup.
Meanwhile, Lucknow also has the seasoned combination of Jason Holder and Dushmanta Chameera, but they have been inconsistent this season, which might be a problem for KL Rahul’s side.
The Lucknow Super Giants’ opening tandem of K L Rahul and Quinton de Kock — by far the greatest opening pair in 2017 IPL — will be a critical match for RCB, as they sit second and third in the top run scorers’ list.
But, with the exception of Deepak Hooda, who has four half-centuries this season, the Lucknow franchise lacks a decent middle and lower order.
Apart from the three, no other hitter has impressed enough to provide stability in the middle and lower innings. So, today’s match will be a treat to eyes.
LIVE STREAMING DETAILS OF LSG VS RCB:
What time will the Lucknow Super Giants and Royal Challengers Bangalore match start?
The LSG vs RCB IPL 2022 match will begin from 7:30 pm onwards. The toss will be held at 7 pm on the same day.
Where can you watch LSG vs RCB IPL 2022 match on TV and online?
The LSG vs RCB IPL 2022 match will be broadcast live on Star Sports Network channels — Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports Select 1, Star Sports Select 1 HD (Dugout) and Star Sports 1. The match will also be streamed live on Disney+ Hotstar.
