Last Updated on 6 years by Charbel Coorey
Two famous T20 franchises. Multiple IPL titles between them, and a thriller already in IPL 2018. I expect another thriller tonight.
Chennai Super Kings travel to Kolkata, with the Kolkata Knight Riders looking for revenge after failing to defend 200+ in their previous meeting with CSK, thanks mainly to Sam Billings’ incredible knock.
A great opportunity awaits KKR in terms of creating some breathing space between them and those behind them challenging for a playoffs spot. Like CSK, they have some concerns with their cricket in the death overs, but with Chris Lynn and the rest of the top order showing form, there is quite a bit to be encouraged about. Can they create a four point gap between them and RCB?
CSK’s batting continues to amaze, and puts them right in with a chance of lifting the IPL title on their return to the competition. Ambati Rayudu has been in amazing form, and MS Dhoni has re-discovered his finishing touch when many have doubted him. However, CSK’s bowling still needs improvement, and one wonders just how far they can go in the tournament if they continue to bowl the way they are.
Key to a Kolkata Knight Riders win
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The last time KKR played CSK, they were 89/5 after 10 overs, before Andre Russell launched an incredible assault. To go one better and win this time, KKR need a fast start from their top order, as well as wickets in hand to try and better their run rate of 9.91 in the death overs (16-20).
Key to a Chennai Super Kings win
Possible teams
Stats & Facts:
- Head-to-Head: Matches: 17, KKR 6, CSK 11. CSK won the previous encounter in IPL 2018, a thrilling 200 v 200 battle.
- Issue for KKR: In the last four matches, the opening partnerships against them have been 54, 116, 59 and 67.
- Ambati Rayudu needs six runs to overtake Rishabh Pant as IPL 2018 leading run scorer.
- MS Dhoni in IPL 2018: 286 runs, avg. 71.50, SR 169.23. Who said he was finished?
- Sunil Narine in last four matches: one wicket, econ. rate 10.3, avg. 144.
