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IPL 2021 Match 48: RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Yash Mittal
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IPL 2021 Match 48: RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

IPL 2021 Match 48: RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | BLR vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction Today | Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Punjab Kings Key Players | Sharjah Pitch Report

With just two spots up for grabs, the race for the IPL 2021 playoffs is heating up. In that regard, the upcoming fixture between Punjab Kings and the Royal Challengers Bangalore in Sharjah on Sunday will be extremely crucial for the wider scheme of things.

With 14 points in the bank after 11 games, the Royal Challengers Bangalore are better placed as compared to their opponents but given their recent record against PBKS – three defeats in as many games – they can’t afford to take the KL Rahul-led unit lightly.

Punjab Kings, on the other hand, basically need to win every game from herein to give themselves the best chance to qualify for the playoffs. They scrapped to a five-wicket win against KKR on Friday but Rahul’s conservative approach and a misfiring middle-order still remains a cause of worry for them.

Can PBKS make it three-in-three against RCB in the UAE or will Virat’s men register their third consecutive win of the second leg?

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Punjab Kings

  • KL Rahul: The stylish opener’s conservative approach in the last couple of seasons has been one of the biggest talking points, but one thing no one can deny is his consistency.
  • He scored yet another 50 in the last game and the Karnataka lad loves batting against his home franchise. In 9 innings, he has scored 460 runs at an average of 92 and a strike rate of 155.4 with three 50+ scores and a hundred.
  • Mayank Agarwal: With Rahul playing the anchor role, Mayank, courtesy of his intentful batting, has proved to be the real MVP with the bat for his side.
  • Agarwal has scored 202 runs in 9 innings against RCB at an average of 22.4. However, he is coming off a brilliant 27-ball 40 in the last game and his record at Sharjah read: 161 runs in 4 innings at 40.2 and a strike rate of 176.9 with one hundred.
  • Shah Rukh Khan: The hard-hitting batsman smashed an unbeaten 9-ball 22 in the last game and he could well prove to be the clincher for his team if it boils down to a tricky situation at the death.
  • Ravi Bishnoi: The young leg-spinner claimed 2/22 in four overs in the last game and has taken a total of 11 wickets in 7 games this season.
  • His record against RCB: 5 wickets in three games at an average of 15.6 and an economy rate of 7.09.
  • Arshdeep Singh: The young left-arm seamer has turned out to be a revelation for the Punjab Kings. In 10 games, he has claimed 16 wickets with three of them coming in the last game.
  • His record in Sharjah: 2 wickets in 3 games. He has played just 1 game against RCB in which he registered figures of 1/20.

Royal Challengers Bangalore:

  • Virat Kohli: The skipper may have scored a couple of half centuries in the UAE leg but he hasn’t looked at his flamboyant best, especially against the spinners.
  • His record vs PBKS: 716 runs in 26 innings at 27.53 at a strike rate of 127.85. His record at Sharjah: 221 runs in 6 innings at an average of 55.2 and a strike rate of 125.6 with one 50+ score.
  • Devdutt Padikkal: The young southpaw has endured a couple of average outings following his 50-ball 70 against CSK and he will be looking to once again notch up a big score.
  • His record at Sharjah: 125 runs in 4 innings at an average of 31.2 and a strike rate of 134.4 with one 50+ score.
  • Glenn Maxwell: The swashbuckler has notched up back-to-back match-winning half-centuries- 56 (37) vs MI, 50* (30) vs RR- and he will be looking to make it three in a row against his former franchise.
  • He managed a golden duck in his last outing against PBKS earlier this season. Maxwell’s record at Sharjah: 208 runs in 4 innings at an average of 69.3 and a strike rate of 196.2 with two 50+ scores.
  • AB de Villiers: He may have had a poor time in the UAE leg thus far but expect the champion cricket to storm back in the upcoming games.
  • His record against Punjab: 710 runs in 22 innings at an average of 32.27 and a strike rate of 158.8. De Villiers has batted 5 times in Sharjah, scoring 122 runs at an average of 30.5 and a strike rate of 143.5.
  • Harshal Patel: The leading wicket-taker of the ongoing season, Harshal has bamboozled one and all with his deadly slower ball.
  • He claimed three wickets in the last game and a hat-trick prior to that. With the pitch in Sharjah expected to be sluggish, the seamer could once again be in business at the backend.
  • Yuzvendra Chahal: The Haryana leggie seems to have regained his mojo in the UAE leg. He claimed a match-winning 3-wicket haul against MI and backed it up with an equally good performance against Rajasthan- 2/18 in four overs.
  • His record vs Punjab: 22 wickets in 15 games. He has claimed 7 wickets in 6 outings in Sharjah at an average of 18.9 and an economy rate of 5.91.

Stats and Facts

  • Both sides have locked horns 27 times with Punjab leading the ledger 15-12.
  • Punjab have won each of their last three fixtures against RCB including their previous encounter in Sharjah last year.
  • Yuzvendra Chahal (22) has the most wickets in PBKS-RCB fixtures.

Possible Playing XI

Punjab Kings: 1. KL Rahul (c & wk), 2. Mayank Agarwal, 3. Nicholas Pooran, 4. Aiden Markram, 5. Deepak Hooda, 6. Shah Rukh Khan, 7. Fabian Allen, 8. Nathan Ellis/Chris Jordan, 9. Mohammed Shami, 10. Ravi Bishnoi, 11. Arshdeep Singh

Royal Challengers Bangalore: 1. Virat Kohli (c), 2. Devdutt Padikkal, 3. KS Bharat (wk), 4. Glenn Maxwell, 5. AB de Villiers, 6. Daniel Christian, 7. George Garton, 8. Shahbaz Ahmed, 9. Harshal Patel, 10. Mohammed Siraj, 11. Yuzvendra Chahal

Sharjah pitch report and weather conditions

The newly relaid pitch at Sharjah has proved to be slow and sluggish thus far with batsmen having a tough time against the change of pace. Much of the same should be the case in the forthcoming games.

As far as the weather is concerned, it is expected to be dry and sunny. The temperatures are set to hover between 30-38 degrees Celsius. Humidity is set to be around 51 percent.

Dream11 & Fan2Play Prediction

Note: Teams below are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these teams in time after the final playing XIs have been announced.

Base team:

IPL 2021 Match 48: RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | BLR vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction Today | Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Punjab Kings Key Players | Sharjah Pitch Report

2, 3, 4 player teams

IPL 2021 Match 48: RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | BLR vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction Today | Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Punjab Kings Key Players | Sharjah Pitch Report

Also read: Fan2Play vs Dream11 – What’s the difference?

Match Prediction

Both sides are extremely unpredictable. But given the edge that PBKS hold over RCB in recent encounters, they will start as slight favorites.

IPL 2021 Match 47: RR vs CSK Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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IPL 2021 Match 47: RR vs CSK Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

IPL 2021 Match 47: RR vs CSK Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | RR vs CSK Dream11 Prediction Today | Rajasthan Royals vs Chennai Super Kings Key Players | Abu Dhabi Pitch Report

Both Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings had a disappointing season in 2020, finishing seventh and eighth respectively. Fast forward a year later, and one side has completely transformed their fortunes, while the other is clinging on after yet another disappointing display.

The Royals have felt the absence of Jos Buttler, Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer. However, the international talent in their ranks remains strong, but unfortunately Chris Morris and Liam Livingstone – two high-profile T20 cricketers – have not been up to the mark. Also, lots depends on the top order, with the middle unable to produce the goods, which was on show last game vs RCB as RR crawled to just 149/9 after a strong start.

KKR’s defeat yesterday keeps the door open for the Royals, but they will have to do it the hard way with the Super Kings, Knight Riders and Mumbai Indians to come in their final three games. Defeat here will surely make it too difficult for Sanju Samson’s men to qualify for the playoffs in a season that promised plenty.

To keep their hopes alive, they will have to get past a strong CSK team. MS Dhoni’s men are firing on all cylinders, with their depth allowing their batsmen to play with total freedom. Also, their prowess at the death this season, led by the likes of Dwayne Bravo and Shardul Thakur, makes them even harder to beat. Victory here will almost guarantee CSK a top-two finish, which is important in IPL cricket.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Rajasthan Royals:

  • Evin Lewis is crucial to RR’s hopes. After a strong CPL 2021 campaign, Lewis has started well in the UAE leg of IPL, hitting scores of 36, 6 and 58. His 58 vs RCB came off just 37 balls.
  • Yashasvi Jaiswal has been another positive in RR’s UAE campaign, with scores of 49, 5, 36 and 31. Can he make another start and this time carry on for a 50+ score?
  • Sanju Samson has the third-most runs of any player in IPL 2021 (452, avg. 50.22, SR 141.25), including two half-centuries in his last three matches. RR will be hoping Samson improves on a poor record vs CSK that reads: 11 inns 165 runs, avg. 15, SR 127.91. However, he did score 74 against them last season.
  • Samson has two half-centuries in nine innings at Abu Dhabi (201 runs, avg. 28.71, SR 132.24).
  • Rahul Tewatia has five wickets in three matches for RR vs CSK at an average of 15.20. He is wicketless in his last two IPL 2021 matches and has just the two wickets in 20 overs at Abu Dhabi, however.
  • Mustafizur Rahman has been RR’s biggest positive with the ball since the resumption. He has taken five wickets in his last three matches (2/22, 1/26, 2/20).
  • Chetan Sakariya took 3/36 vs CSK earlier this season. The left-arm seamer will be key in providing powerplay breakthroughs against CSK’s strong opening partnership.

Chennai Super Kings:

  • Ruturaj Gaikwad has been consistent and classy in equal measure in the UAE leg. Since the resumption, Gaikwad has struck scores of 88* (58), 38 (26), 40 (28) and 45 (38).
  • Also, Gaikwad enjoys batting at Abu Dhabi. In two matches on this ground, Gaikwad has made scores of 62* and 40.
  • Faf du Plessis to make another 30+ score? The CSK opener has scored 31, 43 and 41 in his last three matches. Also, he averages 30 overall in nine matches vs RR (270 runs, avg. 134.33), and 40 in six innings at Abu Dhabi (200 runs).
  • Moeen Ali was player of the match vs RR earlier this season, with 26 (20) and 3/7. Moeen’s role with the ball has been limited in the UAE leg, but today could be the day he bowls more overs given the presence of more left-handers in the RR lineup.
  • Ambati Rayudu has been excellent in the middle overs for CSK, striking at 169.56 in IPL 2021. He will be aiming to improve on his record for CSK vs RR, which reads: 6 inns, 121 runs, avg. 20.33, SR 112.96.
  • Ravindra Jadeja has been absolutely brilliant with the bat since the start of IPL 2020, striking 411 runs in this period at an average of 51.38 and strike rate of 159.92.
  • Against RR, Jadeja has struck 140 runs in 11 innings at an average of 35.00 and strike rate of 117.65. Also, he has 17 wickets in 16 matches against them, including 2/28 earlier this season.
  • Dwayne Bravo is in brilliant form, with figures of 3/25, 3/24 and 2/17 in phase two of IPL 2021. Against RR, Bravo has 16 wickets in 12 matches at an average of 23.94.
  • Deepak Chahar has nine wickets in six matches vs RR at an average of 18.11. He has also taken nine wickets in the powerplay this season – the most of any bowler.

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 25, CSK 15, RR 10.
  • CSK (188/9) beat RR (143/9) with ease earlier in IPL 2021.
  • No player has more runs in CSK-RR matches than Suresh Raina (656, avg. 28.52, SR 134.98). Given that RR lack express pace in their attack (if they don’t pick Oshane Thomas), this could be the day that Raina finds some runs.
  • Shardul Thakur is yet to go wicketless in the UAE leg (1/29, 2/29, 2/20, 1/37). Josh Hazlewood was player of the match last game vs SRH, with 3/24.

Possible Playing 11

Rajasthan Royals have decisions to make. Chris Morris and Liam Livingstone have not delivered as hoped in the second leg, which may prompt changes. Also, Riyan Parag is under pressure to hold his spot given he has scored just 93 runs in 10 innings this season.

Rajasthan Royals: 1. Evin Lewis, 2. Yashasvi Jaiswal, 3. Sanju Samson (c & wk), 4. Liam Livingstone/Glenn Phillips/David Miller, 5. Mahipal Lomror, 6. Riyan Parag/Shivam Dube, 7. Rahul Tewatia, 8. Chris Morris/Tabraiz Shamsi/Oshane Thomas, 9. Chetan Sakariya, 10. Kartik Tyagi, 11. Mustafizur Rahman

Chennai Super Kings are looking much more settled. The only changes may come about if CSK choose to rotate players.

Chennai Super Kings: 1. Ruturaj Gaikwad, 2. Faf du Plessis, 3. Moeen Ali, 4. Suresh Raina, 5. Ambati Rayudu, 6. MS Dhoni (c & wk), 7. Ravindra Jadeja, 8. Dwayne Bravo, 9. Shardul Thakur, 10. Deepak Chahar, 11. Josh Hazlewood

Abu Dhabi Pitch Report and Weather

The average first innings score at Abu Dhabi this season is 141.4. Abu Dhabi is a good chasing ground, with the teams batting second winning four of five matches this year.

The forecast is for more clear and warm weather.

Dream11 Prediction

Note: Teams below are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these teams in time after the final playing XIs have been announced.

Option 1:

IPL 2021 Match 47: RR vs CSK Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | RR vs CSK Dream11 Prediction Today | Rajasthan Royals vs Chennai Super Kings Key Players | Abu Dhabi Pitch Report
IPL 2021 Match 47: RR vs CSK Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

IPL 2021 Match 47: RR vs CSK Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | RR vs CSK Dream11 Prediction Today | Rajasthan Royals vs Chennai Super Kings Key Players | Abu Dhabi Pitch Report
IPL 2021 Match 47: RR vs CSK Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Note: Teams below are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these teams in time after the final playing XIs have been announced.

Base team:

IPL 2021 Match 47: RR vs CSK Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | RR vs CSK Dream11 Prediction Today | Rajasthan Royals vs Chennai Super Kings Key Players | Abu Dhabi Pitch Report
IPL 2021 Match 47: RR vs CSK Fan2Play

2, 3, 4 player challenge teams

IPL 2021 Match 47: RR vs CSK Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | RR vs CSK Dream11 Prediction Today | Rajasthan Royals vs Chennai Super Kings Key Players | Abu Dhabi Pitch Report
IPL 2021 Match 47: RR vs CSK Fan2Play

Also read: Fan2Play vs Dream11 – What’s the difference?

Match Prediction

Desperation may bring the best out of Rajasthan. However, CSK have too much depth and quality. CSK to win.

IPL 2021 Match 46: MI vs DC Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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IPL 2021 Match 46: MI vs DC Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

IPL 2021 Match 46: MI vs DC Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | MI vs DC Dream11 Prediction Today | Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals Key Players | Sharjah Pitch Report

The two finalists of 2020 meet in a crucial clash in 2021. Champions Mumbai Indians have been well below their best this season, but remain in contention for the playoffs. And, of course, they can beat anyone on their day. Delhi Capitals, who suffered a poor run at the backend of last season, will be looking to avoid the same here after defeat last time out against KKR.

The heat is on at Sharjah, both literally and figuratively speaking.

Mumbai are coming off a crucial win over Punjab, doing enough with both bat and ball to seal victory. At the time of writing on Friday evening, Kolkata Knight Riders were yet to finish their battle with Punjab, but regardless, Rohit Sharma’s men desperately need the two points in the pointy end of the season.

For Delhi, the playoffs race is much smoother for them in terms of a top four finish. However, this match is also important in the sense that Royal Challengers Bangalore are sneaking up slowly for a top two spot. Given how important the advantage of winning the first qualifier is in IPL cricket, Rishabh Pant’s team can afford no slip ups here.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Mumbai Indians:

  • No player has more runs in MI-DC matches than Rohit Sharma. The MI skipper has struck 677 runs for MI vs DC at an average of 33.85 and strike rate of 131.71. He has scored 44 (30) and 67 (51) in his last two knocks vs Delhi.
  • However, Rohit has endured a poor run in IPL matches at Sharjah. He has scored just the 14 runs in three matches on this ground at an average of 4.67. He is certainly capable of turning this around.
  • Quinton de Kock performed pretty well against DC in the UAE last year. The Protea made scores of 40 (25), 26 (28), 53 (36) and 20 (12). Also, he has made starts in all four matches of the UAE leg (17, 55, 24, 27) and MI will be hoping QdK goes on to make a significant score.
  • Also, de Kock has scored 154 runs in four innings at Sharjah at an average of 51.67 and strike rate of 136.28.
  • Saurabh Tiwary has been an important performer for MI when given the opportunity. He scored an important 37-ball 45 in his last game vs PBKS.
  • Kieron Pollard is coming off a player of the match performance against PBKS (2/8 and 15 off 7 balls). The MI legend, however, has a modest record against the Capitals compared to other teams, with 354 runs in 23 innings at an average of 23.60 and strike rate of 140.48.
  • In three innings at Sharjah, Pollard has slammed 99 runs at a strike rate of 145.59 for just the one dismissal.
  • Hardik Pandya, who scored a 30-ball 40 a few days ago vs Punjab, also has a modest record against the Capitals (13 inns, 161 runs, avg. 16.10, SR 150.47). It is his brother, Krunal Pandya, who has the better batting numbers vs DC, with 250 runs in 11 innings at an average of 31.25 and strike rate of 170.07. Also, Krunal has nine wickets in 12 innings vs DC at an average of 24.
  • Jasprit Bumrah is on a dream run vs Delhi Capitals. In his last five matches against them, Bumrah has taken figures of 1/32, 4/14, 3/17, 0/26 and 2/24. Also, Bumrah has taken four wickets in two matches at Sharjah (avg. 16.50, SR 12.00).
  • Trent Boult strikes every two overs on average vs Delhi Capitals (18 overs, nine wickets, avg. 13.22). He was player of the match in last year’s IPL Final, with figures of 3/30. Also, Boult has six wickets in two matches at Sharjah.

Delhi Capitals:

  • Will Shikhar Dhawan hit top form? In nine matches for DC vs MI, Dhawan has struck 235 runs at an average of 29.60 and strike rate of 116.92, including 45 (42) earlier this season.
  • Shreyas Iyer was out cheaply last game vs KKR (1), but the right-hander was in some fine touch before that with scores of 47* and 43 vs Sunrisers and Royals respectively.
  • Iyer has a similar record to Dhawan against MI, with an average of 29.64 and strike rate of 119.41. This includes 65* off 50 balls in the last match he played against them – the IPL 2020 Final.
  • Rishabh Pant will be key in these slow Sharjah conditions. The DC skipper strikes at 146.41 in 11 innings vs MI, with 306 runs at an average of 30.60. He scored 39 off 36 balls a couple of days ago on this ground vs KKR.
  • Among teams he’s played at least 10 matches against, Steve Smith’s average of 42 against Mumbai Indians makes them his favourite opponent. Overall, Smudge has scored 462 runs in 14 innings at a strike rate of 128.69.
  • Kagiso Rabada strikes every 14.67 deliveries at Sharjah. However, he will be aiming to improve on his economy rate of 10.02 on this ground, especially after the onslaught from Sunil Narine last game.
  • Against MI, Rabada has taken 10 wickets in nine matches at an average of 27.80 and strike rate of 19.80.
  • Anrich Nortje has been in fine touch in the UAE leg of IPL 2021, with figures of 2/12, 2/18 and 1/15. He has taken four wickets in four matches vs MI (avg. 32, econ. 9.85).
  • Avesh Khan is having a terrific IPL. Only Harshal Patel (23) has more wickets than Avesh (18), who is coming off 3/13 on this ground a couple of days ago vs KKR.

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 29, MI 16, DC 13.
  • Delhi Capitals (138/4) beat Mumbai Indians (137/9) earlier this year after MI beat them four times in the UAE last season.
  • If Prithvi Shaw is fit, he will have to overcome a poor record against MI (7 inns, 60 runs, avg. 8.57).
  • MI could look to play Jayant Yadav. In his last four games vs DC, he has taken 1/25 three times and 0/18 in the other.
  • DC could be tempted to play Amit Mishra. He took 4/24 vs MI earlier this year, part of 19 wickets in 14 matches for DC against Mumbai.
  • Mumbai Indians are scoring at just 8.23 runs per over at the death in IPL 2021, which is their worst in any season.

Possible Playing 11

Mumbai Indians: 1. Rohit Sharma (c), 2. Quinton de Kock (wk), 3. Suryakumar Yadav, 4. Saurabh Tiwary, 5. Hardik Pandya, 6. Kieron Pollard, 7. Krunal Pandya, 8. Nathan Coulter-Nile, 9. Rahul Chahar, 10. Trent Boult, 11. Jasprit Bumrah

Delhi Capitals: 1. Shikhar Dhawan, 2. Steve Smith/Prithvi Shaw, 3. Shreyas Iyer, 4. Rishabh Pant (c & wk), 5. Shimron Hetmyer, 6. Lalit Yadav, 7. Axar Patel, 8. R Ashwin, 9. Kagiso Rabada, 10. Avesh Khan, 11. Anrich Nortje

Sharjah Pitch Report and Weather

Despite the small boundaries, run-scoring has been challenging at Sharjah in IPL 2021. The last three scores on this ground are 125/7, 127/9 and 134/7, with the chasing team winning the last two. Expect similar pitch conditions on what is set to be another very hot day.

Dream11 Prediction

Note: Teams below are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these teams in time after the final playing XIs have been announced.

Option 1:

IPL 2021 Match 46: MI vs DC Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | MI vs DC Dream11 Prediction Today | Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals Key Players | Sharjah Pitch Report
IPL 2021 Match 46: MI vs DC Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

IPL 2021 Match 46: MI vs DC Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | MI vs DC Dream11 Prediction Today | Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals Key Players | Sharjah Pitch Report
IPL 2021 Match 46: MI vs DC Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Note: Teams below are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these teams in time after the final playing XIs have been announced.

Base team:

IPL 2021 Match 46: MI vs DC Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | MI vs DC Dream11 Prediction Today | Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals Key Players | Sharjah Pitch Report
IPL 2021 Match 46: MI vs DC Fan2Play

2, 3, 4 player challenge teams

IPL 2021 Match 46: MI vs DC Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | MI vs DC Dream11 Prediction Today | Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals Key Players | Sharjah Pitch Report
IPL 2021 Match 46: MI vs DC Fan2Play

Also read: Fan2Play vs Dream11 – What’s the difference?

Match Prediction

This one can go either way. A total in the region of 140 batting first could be a tough chase. Mumbai, with their great recent record vs DC, to win.

IPL 2021 Match 45: KKR vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
IPL 2021 Match 45: KKR vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

IPL 2021 Match 45: KKR vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | KOL vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction Today | Kolkata Knight Riders vs Punjab Kings | Dubai Pitch Report

Time is running out for Punjab Kings. Yet again, the Kings have not performed up to scratch in an IPL tournament, and are on the brink of missing out on the playoffs.

After their disappointing loss in a crucial game vs MI, KL Rahul spoke of how his team has struggled to handle pressure in IPL 2021. Today, the pressure intensifies even further, as this is effectively do-or-die given the difference in net run rate between they and their opponent.

And that opponent is the in form Kolkata Knight Riders. Victory here for KKR puts them four points clear of Punjab, and given how superior their net run rate is already, it will almost certainly come down to they and Mumbai Indians for the final playoffs spot.

Eoin Morgan’s team will be aiming to continue their fine run, with three victories in four matches since the restart. Last time out, Sunil Narine led the way as KKR beat high-flying Delhi in a tough match. Will they take a huge step towards playoffs qualification here?

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Punjab Kings:

  • Punjab Kings have lost seven out of nine games in which KL Rahul has scored below 25. So, the PBKS skipper is crucial to his team’s hopes.
  • Rahul has four half-centuries in 10 innings vs KKR, with an overall average of 35.11 and strike rate of 142.99. Also, he loves batting at Dubai, with 441 runs in nine innings at an average of 55.13 and strike rate of 138.68.
  • Mayank Agarwal is expected to return after missing the last match due to back soreness. He has scored 183 runs in six innings for PBKS vs KKR at an average of 36.80 and strike rate of 134.56, including the top-scorer earlier this season (31).
  • Aiden Markram will be key in the absence of Chris Gayle. The Protea has scored 26*, 27 and 42 in the UAE leg of the tournament, part of 560 runs at an average of 32.94 and strike rate of 135.27 in 21 T20s this year.
  • Ravi Bishnoi has also been excellent in the UAE leg of IPL 2021 (3/24 and 2/25). He enjoys bowling at Dubai, with nine wickets in 24 overs at an average of 18.33.
  • Against KKR, Bishnoi has taken three scalps in as many matches at an average of 21.33 and economy rate of 5.33.
  • Mohammed Shami was expensive against MI (1/42), but was in fine form in his previous two matches (3/21 and 1/14). His 3/21 was at Dubai, part of 14 wickets in 10 matches on this ground (avg. 20.43, SR 16.57).
  • Shami has taken seven wickets in five matches for PBKS vs KKR (avg. 21.29, econ. 7.83), including 1/25 earlier this season.
  • Arshdeep Singh loves bowling at Dubai. He took a five-wicket haul against RR earlier this season, part of 12 wickets in five matches on this ground at an average of 12.75 and strike rate of 8.92.
  • Arshdeep will be aiming to improve on his record vs KKR, which reads: 4 inns, 2 wickets, avg. 47.00, econ. 8.81.

Kolkata Knight Riders:

  • He is bowling well, and has been a breath of fresh air with the bat. The stage is set for Venkatesh Iyer to deliver once again. He took 2/29 in four overs last game vs DC, and has made scores of 41*, 53, 18 and 14 in the UAE leg of IPL 2021.
  • Shubman Gill has a superb record against PBKS. In six innings against them, Gill has struck 218 runs at an average of 72.65 and strike rate of 132.62.
  • At Dubai, Gill has 109 runs to his name in three innings (top score 47).
  • Rahul Tripathi missed out against DC (9), but looked in fine touch in the previous two matches (74* and 45). He scored 41 (32) vs PBKS earlier this season.
  • Eoin Morgan has been in horrendous form, but this could be the match he rediscovers his touch. He was player of the match against PBKS earlier this season, with 47* (40) and three catches. In six innings for KKR vs PBKS, Morgan has struck 228 runs at an average of 45.60 and strike rate of 136.53.
  • Sunil Narine is on fire. He has sent a reminder of his talent after being left out of West Indies’ World Cup squad, with figures of 0/20, 1/20, 3/41 and 2/18 in the UAE leg. He also helped seal a tough chase vs DC with a 10-ball 21.
  • And the good news may continue for Narine. No bowler has more wickets in KKR-PBKS matches than Narine, with 30 scalps in 20 matches at an average of 17.70 and strike rate of 15.40, including 2/22 earlier this season.
  • If Lockie Ferguson is fit, watch out. The fast bowler has taken figures of 2/24, 2/27, 1/33 and 2/10 in the UAE leg.

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 28, KKR 19, PBKS 9.
  • KKR (126/5) beat PBKS (123/9) with 19 balls to spare earlier in IPL 2021.
  • Two games ago, Dinesh Karthik struck an excellent 11-ball 26 vs CSK. Karthik, the finisher, could be key here against a team he enjoys playing against (7 inns, 185 runs, avg. 46.25, SR 188.78).
  • Rahul Tripathi is averaging 53.8 and striking at 154 in the middle overs in IPL 2021.
  • Prasidh Krishna took 3/30 vs PBKS earlier this season.

Possible Playing 11

Chris Gayle has left the IPL bubble citing bubble fatigue. He is aiming to be fit and firing for the T20 World Cup.

Punjab Kings: 1. KL Rahul (c & wk), 2. Mayank Agarwal, 3. Aiden Markram, 4. Nicholas Pooran, 5. Deepak Hooda/Shahrukh Khan, 6. Fabian Allen, 7. Harpreet Brar, 8. Ravi Bishnoi, 9. Nathan Ellis, 10. Arshdeep Singh, 11. Mohammed Shami

Andre Russell is expected to miss this game as well as he has a hamstring injury. Also, Lockie Ferguson is in doubt after failing to complete his overs against Delhi Capitals.

Kolkata Knight Riders: 1. Shubman Gill, 2. Venkatesh Iyer, 3. Rahul Tripathi, 4. Nitish Rana, 5. Eoin Morgan (c), 6. Dinesh Karthik (wk), 7. Sunil Narine, 8. Tim Southee, 9. Ben Cutting/Lockie Ferguson, 10. Prasidh Krishna/Sandeep Warrier, 11. Varun Chakravarthy

Dubai Pitch Report and Weather

The chasing team has won three of the last four matches on this ground. The average first innings score in these four matches is 153, which calls for the team batting first to get closer to 170 on a good batting pitch.

More warm and clear weather is forecast.

Dream11 Prediction

Note: Teams below are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these teams in time after the final playing XIs have been announced.

Option 1:

IPL 2021 Match 45: KKR vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | KOL vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction Today | Kolkata Knight Riders vs Punjab Kings | Dubai Pitch Report
IPL 2021 Match 45: KKR vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

IPL 2021 Match 45: KKR vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | KOL vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction Today | Kolkata Knight Riders vs Punjab Kings | Dubai Pitch Report
IPL 2021 Match 45: KKR vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Note: Teams below are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these teams in time after the final playing XIs have been announced.

IPL 2021 Match 45: KKR vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | KOL vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction Today | Kolkata Knight Riders vs Punjab Kings | Dubai Pitch Report

Also read: Fan2Play vs Dream11 – What’s the difference?

Match Prediction

Even with the absence of key players, KKR look good for a win against a team they have a great record against. Punjab’s hopes mostly lie with KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal (if fit) at the top.

IPL 2021 Match 44: SRH vs CSK Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
IPL 2021 Match 44: SRH vs CSK Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

IPL 2021 Match 44: SRH vs CSK Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | CSK vs SRH Dream11 Prediction Today | Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Chennai Super Kings Key Players | Sharjah Pitch Report

According to form and the table, this should be no contest. One side has lit up the IPL, and the other has lit life up for their opponents.

But, as we have seen in the past in IPL, it is never as straightforward as that. Sunrisers Hyderabad come into this match on the back of a comprehensive victory against the Royals. The inclusion of Jason Roy proved to be quite the boost, with Kane Williamson in the runs as well after the bowlers put together a decent showing.

However, this will be a tougher test against a Chennai Super Kings side that continues to impress. Their fantastic batting depth was on show in their last outing against the Knight Riders, with Ravindra Jadeja and Deepak Chahar getting them over the line in a tough chase. Also, given how SRH focus on trying to keep the middle overs quiet, the likes of Moeen Ali and Ambati Rayudu are ones to watch, especially if Faf du Plessis and Ruturaj Gaikwad can do their thing.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Sunrisers Hyderabad:

  • Kane Williamson, who scored 51* off 41 balls last match, loves playing CSK. In nine matches for SRH vs CSK, Williamson has struck 327 runs at an average of 46.71 and strike rate of 144.69. This includes 26* off 10 balls earlier this season.
  • Also, Williamson has terrific records against CSK bowlers. He has scored 49 runs off 35 balls vs Jadeja, without dismissal. It’s 58 off 44 balls vs Deepak Chahar for no wicket, too. Against Shardul Thakur, Williamson has slammed 57 off 38 balls for two dismissals. Key player.
  • Jason Roy will also be key to SRH’s hopes. CSK work hard to gain an advantage in the powerplay, and it is Roy’s role to counter that. He was player of the match against the Royals with a 42-ball 60, but how he adjusts to the slow Sharjah surface will be interesting to see.
  • Priyam Garg struck a half-century against CSK last season. The youngster will be hoping to make a mark today after a golden duck in his last game.
  • Two games ago, Jason Holder took 3/19 and struck 47* vs Punjab. Also, Holder enjoyed playing at Sharjah last season, with 73 runs in two innings (no dismissals) and seven wickets in three matches (avg. 10.14, SR 10.29).
  • Rashid Khan takes an average of one wicket per match vs CSK (nine wickets in 36 overs), including 3/36 earlier this season. Rashid also has the exact same ratio at Sharjah (four wickets in 24 overs), and has taken one wicket in each of his three matches in IPL 2021 phase two.
  • Bhuvneshwar Kumar will be key on a slow pitch. He has taken six wickets in three matches at Sharjah at an average of 12.67 and strike rate of 12.00. He will be aiming to improve on his record for SRH vs CSK: 11 inns, eight wickets, avg. 34.00.

Chennai Super Kings:

  • Ruturaj Gaikwad smashed a 44-ball 75 vs SRH earlier this season. He has been superb in the UAE leg, with scores of 88* (58), 38 (26) and 40 (28).
  • Faf du Plessis also struck a half-century against SRH earlier this season (56 off 38 balls). Overall for CSK against SRH, du Plessis has struck 264 runs in 11 innings at an average of 26.40 and strike rate of 134.69.
  • Also, du Plessis has hit two half-centuries in five matches at Sharjah (5 inns, 162 runs, avg. 32.40, SR 137.29).
  • Moeen Ali has helped transform CSK in IPL 2021 with a strike rate of 145. He comes into this match on the back of some time at the crease, with 23 and 32 in his last two matches.
  • Given that SRH’s batting lineup is filled with right-handers, expect Moeen’s involvement with the ball to be limited.
  • Ambati Rayudu has also been crucial in the middle overs. And, he has a superb record for CSK against SRH, with 290 runs at an average of 58.00 and strike rate of 139.42.
  • Ravindra Jadeja has been absolutely brilliant with the bat since the start of IPL 2020, striking 411 runs in this period at an average of 51.38 and strike rate of 159.92.
  • One feels that Jadeja’s biggest impact in this game is likely to be with the bat. He has not taken a single wicket in 13 overs at Sharjah, and has just four wickets in 15 matches vs SRH at an average of 82.50. But, SRH’s list of right-handers could suit Jadeja on a slow surface.
  • CSK would wise to bring Dwayne Bravo back into the XI. He is in wonderful form, taking six wickets in the first two matches of the UAE leg. Plus, he has the most wickets in CSK-SRH matches with 17 in 12 games at an average of 22.35.
  • Deepak Chahar has nine wickets in nine matches vs SRH at an average of 25.33 and economy rate of 6.71. Chahar also takes an average of one wicket per match at Sharjah (four wickets in 24 overs).

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 16, SRH 4, CSK 12.
  • CSK (173/3) beat SRH (171/3) comfortably earlier in IPL 2021.
  • MS Dhoni could look to promote himself up the order given his great record against SRH (399 runs, avg. 79.80, SR 158.33). Also, he has scored 81 runs off 46 balls against Bhuvneshwar Kumar and 45 off 25 against Siddharth Kaul.
  • Ravindra Jadeja is one of three players to score 400 runs and average 50+ since IPL 2020. The other two are Kane Williamson and KL Rahul.
  • Rashid Khan’s average of 27.6 against CSK is his worst average against any IPL team.

Possible Playing 11

Manish Pandey struck a half-century vs CSK earlier this season, so SRH could look to bring him back if they wish to.

Sunrisers Hyderabad: 1. Jason Roy, 2. Wriddhiman Saha (wk), 3. Kane Williamson (c), 4. Priyam Garg/Manish Pandey, 5. Abhishek Sharma, 6. Jason Holder, 7. Abdul Samad, 8. Rashid Khan, 9. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 10. Siddharth Kaul, 11. Sandeep Sharma

This could be the day Imran Tahir gets a game given the slow nature of the Sharjah pitch. Also, Dwayne Bravo was superb before missing the last game and could replace Sam Curran as Bravo can take advantage of SRH’s finishing struggles.

Chennai Super Kings: 1. Faf du Plessis, 2. Ruturaj Gaikwad, 3. Moeen Ali, 4. Ambati Rayudu, 5. Suresh Raina, 6. MS Dhoni (c & wk), 7. Ravindra Jadeja, 8. Sam Curran/Dwayne Bravo, 9. Shardul Thakur, 10. Deepak Chahar, 11. Josh Hazlewood/Imran Tahir

Sharjah Pitch Report and Weather

Last season, the average first innings score at Sharjah was 178, with 200+ scores in each of the first four matches. This season, the pitch is much slower, with an average first innings score of just 136. So, strike rotation and being busy against the spinners will be key.

The forecast is for warm and clear weather once again.

Dream11 Prediction

Note: Teams below are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these teams in time after the final playing XIs have been announced.

Option 1:

IPL 2021 Match 44: SRH vs CSK Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | CSK vs SRH Dream11 Prediction Today | Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Chennai Super Kings Key Players | Sharjah Pitch Report
IPL 2021 Match 44: SRH vs CSK Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

IPL 2021 Match 44: SRH vs CSK Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | CSK vs SRH Dream11 Prediction Today | Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Chennai Super Kings Key Players | Sharjah Pitch Report
IPL 2021 Match 44: SRH vs CSK Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Note: Teams below are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these teams in time after the final playing XIs have been announced.

IPL 2021 Match 44: SRH vs CSK Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | CSK vs SRH Dream11 Prediction Today | Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Chennai Super Kings Key Players | Sharjah Pitch Report
IPL 2021 Match 44: SRH vs CSK Fan2Play

Also read: Fan2Play vs Dream11 – What’s the difference?

Match Prediction

SRH will have some confidence coming off a win, but CSK look too strong. CSK to win.

AUS-W vs IND-W Test Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Yash Mittal
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0
AUS-W vs IND-W Test Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

AUS-W vs IND-W Test Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | AU-W vs IN-W Test Dream11 Prediction Today | Australia vs India Key Players | Carrara Oval Pitch Report

After a hugely entertaining and highly competitive three-match ODI series, it is now time for Australia Women and Indian Women to lock horns in a one-off pink-ball Test.

The occasion is set to be a historic affair with the Women in Blue locking horns with their Aussie counterparts in a Test match after a gap of 15 years.

This will also be the first time that the Indian Women will be playing a pink ball Test match and they will be up against a side that has prior experience of it.

That said, India gave a good account of themselves in their first Test since 2014 earlier this year against England as they pulled off a heroic draw despite being written off by most.

Facing Australia in a pink ball affair will be a completely different kettle of fish and one feels that the tourists will have to be at the top of their game to pose a serious challenge to the Aussies, who will be looking for redemption after their ODI winning streak was ended by the Mithali Raj-led unit last week.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Australia Women:

  • Alyssa Healy: The wicketkeeper-batter endured a poor run in the last two ODI and she will be looking to shrug it off in the historic Test. Healy has featured in 4 Tests thus far, scoring 201 runs at an average of 33.50 with one 50+ score.
  • Beth Mooney: The southpaw scored a match-winning ton in the 2nd ODI to seal an epic win for her side and she will be looking to continue her form in the day-night Test.
  • Mooney featured in the first and to date last day-night women’s Test against England back in 2017 where she scored a 102-ball 27.
  • Ellyse Perry: She might not have had the best of times in the ODI series but expect the champion cricketer to roar back in the one-off Test.
  • Perry smashed an unbeaten 213 in her last outing against the pink ball. She also claimed three wickets. Overall, she has featured in 8 Tests, scoring 624 runs at an average of 78 with 4 50+ scores which include a couple of hundreds.
  • Meg Lanning: The skipper did not have the best of times for most parts of the ODI series and she will be looking to script a turnaround in the pink-ball Test. Lanning has featured in 4 Tests, scoring 185 runs at an average of 23.12 with one 50+ score.
  • Darcie Brown: The young pacer gave a great account of herself during the ODI series and she will be the one to watch out for with the pink ball, especially under lights.

India Women:

  • Shafali Verma: The teenage sensation gave a good account of herself on Test debut against England earlier this year. She smashed a couple of half-centuries including a 152-ball 96 in the first innings.
  • Smriti Mandhana: The stylish batter looked good in the recent ODI series and was instrumental in giving a brisk start to the Indians in all three games. Mandhana has played just three Tests in which she has scored 167 runs at an average of 33.40 with a couple of 50+ scores.
  • Mithali Raj: The skipper is the leading run-scorer for the visitors in Test cricket among the current lot. In 18 innings, she has scored 669 runs at an average of 44.60 which includes a brilliant double ton in Taunton.
  • Raj has played one Test against Australia in which she managed a total of 22 runs. The veteran cricketer managed scores of 2 & 4 in her previous Test outing earlier this year against England.
  • Sneh Rana: The spin-bowling all-rounder played a stellar role with both and bat in the one-off Test against England. She claimed 4 wickets besides scoring an unbeaten 80 in the second innings to eke out a draw for her team.
  • Rana played a brilliant cameo in the 3rd ODI and she will be looking to continue with the good work in the historic pink-ball Test.
  • Jhulan Goswami: The veteran seamer will be India’s best bet with the pink ball. She was brilliant with the ball in the ODI series as she provided wickets at the top.
  • Goswami claimed just one wicket in the Test match against England earlier this year. Overall, Jhulan has featured in 11 Tests in which she has scalped 41 wickets at an average of 17.63 with 3 five-wicket-hauls and a ten-for.

Stats and Facts

  • This will be the second-ever pink-ball Test in women’s cricket and India’s first.
  • The lone day-night Test thus far in women’s cricket was played between Australia and England in 2017 which ended in a draw.
  • India and Australia will be playing a Test match after a gap of 15 years.
  • Overall, both sides have played 5 Tests against each other with Australia winning 4 of them; one game ended in a draw.

Possible Playing XI

Australia Women: 1. Beth Mooney, 2. Alyssa Healy (wk), 3. Meg Lanning (c), 4. Ellyse Perry, 5. Ashleigh Gardener, 6. Tahila McGrath, 7. Nicola Carey, 8. Sophie Molineux, 9. Georgia Wareham, 10. Hannah Darlington, 11. Darcie Brown/M Brown

India Women: 1. Shafali Verma, 2. Smriti Mandhana, 3. Punam Raut, 4. Mithali Raj (c), 5. Deepti Sharma, 6. Sneh Rana, 7. Taniya Bhatia/Richa Ghosh (WK), 8. Jhulan Goswami, 9. Pooja Vastrakar, 10. Meghna Singh, 11. Shikha Pandey

Carrara Oval, pitch report and weather conditions

Not much is known about the pitch conditions at the Carrara Oval but if the pictures of the surface floating around on social media are taken into account, the surface had a decent amount of grass covering. While some of the grass is expected to be shaved off before the game, one can expect the track to suit the pacers, especially under lights.

As far as the weather is concerned, it is expected to be chilly on Gold Coast with rain expected to make an appearance at some point. The temperatures are set to hover between 21-23 degrees Celsius. Humidity is set to be around 76 percent.

Dream11 & Fan2Play Prediction

Note: Teams below are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these teams in time after the final playing XIs have been announced.

AUS-W vs IND-W Test Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | AU-W vs IN-W Test Dream11 Prediction Today | Australia vs India Key Players | Carrara Oval Pitch Report

Also read: Fan2Play vs Dream11 – What’s the difference?

Match Prediction

Given their experience in the format and familiarity with conditions, Australia Women will start as massive favourites.

IPL 2021 Match 43: RR vs RCB Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
IPL 2021 Match 43: RR vs RCB Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report

IPL 2021 Match 43: RR vs RCB Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | RR vs RCB Dream11 Prediction Today | Rajasthan Royals vs Royal Challengers Bangalore Key Players | Dubai Pitch Report

Rajasthan Royals have promised a lot. Even their talented but often frustrating captain Sanju Samson is in the runs, and is right in contention for the Orange Cap.

However, as has often been the case in recent years, the Royals haven’t quite been able to go to the next level. Their last defeat – to bottom-placed Sunrisers Hyderabad – was particularly disappointing and potentially very costly after a poor batting performance vs Delhi Capitals over the weekend.

Now, it’s desperation time. Both KKR and MI picked up excellent victories yesterday to leave the Royals with a must-win game today to go level and stay in realistic contention. Not only will skipper Samson need to continue his dsearch for consistency, but more is required from the likes of Evin Lewis, Liam Livingstone and Chris Morris.

And the task won’t be easy today. Royal Challengers Bangalore are back in the winners’ circle after a comprehensive, dominant victory over the Mumbai Indians. While their finishing still leaves a bit to be desired, which is remarkable given the presence of AB de Villiers, their bowling looks in good touch. Virat Kohli’s men will be looking to build on a strong performance and take an important step towards a top two finish.

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Rajasthan Royals:

  • Sanju Samson produced a memorable knock of 92 vs RCB a few years ago. However, it has often been lean pickings for Samson vs RCB, with an overall record that reads: 11 inns, 241 runs, avg. 24.10, SR 154.49.
  • However, Samson is in some fine touch currently, with scores of 70* and 82 in his last two matches. He is currently the second-highest run-scorer in IPL 2021, with 433 at an average of 45.40 and strike rate of 130.45.
  • Yashasvi Jaiswal has looked in decent touch in the UAE leg, with scores of 49 (36), 5 (4), and 36 (23). Can he carry on and make another 30+ score today at a good rate?
  • More is expected of Evin Lewis and Liam Livingstone. Lewis has played one match vs RCB, making a score of 65 at a strike rate of 154.76. Livingstone has had a poor UAE leg, but is capable of producing the goods given he is having a magnificent year in T20s: 35 inns, 1,243 runs, avg. 41.43, SR 156.
  • Chris Morris has taken just the one wicket for RR against RCB, at an average of 102 and economy rate of 10.30. Overall in his career vs RCB, Morris has taken 10 wickets in 10 matches at an average of 31.70 and strike rate of 21. With the bat, he averages just 12.75 vs RCB. Can he improve on these numbers here?
  • Mustafizur Rahman has taken 2/22 and 1/26 in his last two matches. He will be key in enabling RR to find wickets against RCB.

Royal Challengers Bangalore:

  • Virat Kohli is coming off consecutive half-centuries, and has scored 72*, 43 and 72* in his last three knocks vs Rajasthan Royals. He has the most runs of any player in RR-RCB matches, with 554 at an average of 30.78 and strike rate of 116.39.
  • Devdutt Padikkal smashed a century vs the Royals earlier in 2021 (101* off 52 balls). He has a century and half-century in three matches vs Royals (199 runs, avg. 99.50), and has two fifties in eight matches at Dubai.
  • Glenn Maxwell produced a superb all-round performance in the last game vs MI. He scored 56 (37) and took 2/23 on this ground. Against the Royals, Maxwell has hit 161 runs at an average of 26.83 and strike rate of 153.33 in eight matches.
  • AB de Villiers is yet to fire in the UAE leg of IPL 2021. However, today could be the day if he gets some time at the crease as he has a terrific record against RR: 15 inns, 484 runs, avg. 44.00, SR 160.80.
  • Also, ABD has a fine record at Dubai, with 310 runs in 10 innings at an average of 44.29 and strike rate of 149.76.
  • Harshal Patel is coming off a brilliant hat-trick against MI. The Purple Cap holder has 23 wickets this season, of which 15 have come via the slower ball. He took 3/47 vs RR earlier this season.
  • Yuzvendra Chahal has been brilliant in phase two of IPL 2021. Since being left out of India’s T20 World Cup squad, Chahal has taken figures of 1/23, 1/26 and 3/11. Against RR, Chahal has taken 16 wickets in 12 matches at an average of 14.19 and strike rate of 13.69.
  • At Dubai, Chahal has 16 wickets to his name in 10 matches at an average of 16.31 and strike rate of 14.63.

Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 24, RR 10, RCB 11, N/R 3.
  • RCB thumped RR by 10 wickets earlier this season, with Devdutt Padikkal (101*) and Virat Kohli (72*) obliterating the bowling attack to chase 179 with ease.
  • Mahipal Lomror is one to watch here. He is striking at 131.88 in three innings so far in IPL 2021 (91 runs), and could be utilised in the powerplay once again with the ball.
  • Chris Morris is yet to take a wicket in the UAE leg of IPL 2021 (0/47 and 0/27).
  • Mohammed Siraj took 3/27 against RR earlier this season.

Possible Playing 11

Rajasthan Royals: 1. Evin Lewis, 2. Yashasvi Jaiswal, 3. Sanju Samson (c), 4. Liam Livingstone/David Miller, 5. Mahipal Lomror, 6. Riyan Parag, 7. Rahul Tewatia, 8. Chris Morris, 9. Chetan Sakariya, 10. Kartik Tyagi/Jaydev Unadkat, 11. Mustafizur Rahman

Royal Challengers Bangalore: 1. Virat Kohli (c), 2. Devdutt Paddikal, 3. Srikar Bharat (wk), 4. Glenn Maxwell, 5. AB de Villiers, 6. Dan Christian/Wanindu Hasaranga, 7. Shahbaz Ahmed, 8. Kyle Jamieson, 9. Harshal Patel, 10. Yuzvendra Chahal, 11. Mohammed Siraj

Dubai Pitch Report and Weather

The average first innings score at Dubai in IPL 2021 is 160.8 in five matches. The team batting first has won three of the five matches on this ground this season, following on from 15 out of 26 games last season.

Two nights ago, Sunrisers chased the Royals’ 164 with ease on a good batting surface. The Dubai surface has looked the best batting pitch out of the three grounds in IPL 2021, so a score in the region of 165-170 is important for the team batting first.

The forecast is for more clear and warm weather.

Dream11 Prediction

Note: Teams below are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these teams in time after the final playing XIs have been announced.

Option 1:

IPL 2021 Match 43: RR vs RCB Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | RR vs RCB Dream11 Prediction Today | Rajasthan Royals vs Royal Challengers Bangalore Key Players | Dubai Pitch Report
IPL 2021 Match 43: RR vs RCB Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

IPL 2021 Match 43: RR vs RCB Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | RR vs RCB Dream11 Prediction Today | Rajasthan Royals vs Royal Challengers Bangalore Key Players | Dubai Pitch Report
IPL 2021 Match 43: RR vs RCB Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Note: Teams below are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these teams in time after the final playing XIs have been announced.

IPL 2021 Match 43: RR vs RCB Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible Playing 11 Pitch Report | RR vs RCB Dream11 Prediction Today | Rajasthan Royals vs Royal Challengers Bangalore Key Players | Dubai Pitch Report
IPL 2021 Match 43: RR vs RCB Fan2Play

Also read: Fan2Play vs Dream11 – What’s the difference?

Match Prediction

RCB have an excellent recent record vs RR, and look good to win here as well.

Twitter reactions as MI win crucial game vs PBKS

Nash Sant
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0
Twitter reactions as MI win crucial game vs PBKS

Cricket News: Twitter reactions as MI win crucial game vs PBKS | Twitter reactions to MI winning vs PBKS in race to the IPL playoffs

Mumbai Indians have finally posted a win in phase two of IPL 2021 season by beating Punjab Kings by six wickets and one over to spare. With the win, MI are back into the race for a playoff spot.

After Punjab posted an average total of 135, Saurabh Tiwary and Hardik Pandya chipped in with 45 and 40 respectively to see their side through. Man of the Match Kieron Pollard struck twice in one over he bowled and also made a quick-fire 15 off 7 to finish the game off. It was an overall team performance from Mumbai Indians who have been lacklustre so far in this edition.

After the match, Pollard spoke about the need to be smart with the ball given he has limitations. “For me to get these wickets, I’ll take it each and every time. When you’re out of form, the boundary looks like it’s 150 metres. I don’t have pace, I don’t have spin, I don’t have swing, but I have a little bit of brain!”

Pollard then said how he hopes this victory kickstarts Mumbai’s push for the playoffs after three very disappointing performances in the UAE.

“It was important to get the two points. Took 19 overs to get to the target but the two points was more important. Maybe it can spark something in the dressing room,” said Pollard after the match.

PBKS skipper KL Rahul lamented how the Kings have not been good under pressure.

“Good fight from the bowlers, but we didn’t score enough. This was the best deck we have played on. We should’ve got 170. The next three games will be really interesting for us. We haven’t been able to handle the pressure over the tournament. Take it one game at a time will be the chat. We will also try to enjoy the games and not worry about the results. All the UAE games for us have gone to the wire,“ said KL Rahul.

Twitter reactions as MI win crucial game vs PBKS

Let’s look at some of the reactions on Twitter from yesterday’s game, which leaves Punjab Kings in a very precarious position:

https://twitter.com/Devilcricket8/status/1442848432402546691?s=20

Written by Nash Sant. Follow Nash on Twitter today

Players to watch out for in Sheffield Shield 2021/22

Nash Sant
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Players to watch out for in Sheffield Shield 2021/22

Cricket News: Players to watch out for in Sheffield Shield 2021/22 | Players looking to impress the selectors in the Sheffield Shield 2021/22 season ahead of the Ashes

Australian domestic calendar begins with the Marsh One-Day Cup and the Sheffield Shield game between Western Australia and South Australia. The first game recently finished at the Karen Rolton Oval in Adelaide.

The Sheffield Shield 2021/22 season is particularly important for a handful of players, given that it is the Ashes year and the batting line-up is hinged on two players – Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne – scoring the bulk of the runs. Given the fragility of the batting line-up, a number of spots are up for grabs and there are a few players trying to prove a point to the selectors.

Let’s take a look at some of the players who will battle it out to earn their maiden Test call-up and also some players vying to get back into the Test team.

South Australia:

  • Travis Head – After losing his CA contract for 2021-22, Head has a lot to prove. Once a player who was touted as the next Australian captain, has failed to live up to his potential and along with his state captaincy, will also look to improve on his own batting performances.
  • Alex Carey – The man who many think will replace Tim Paine as the next WK batsman is yet to make his test debut. He will look to score big hundreds this time and try to push his case for that number 6 batting spot.

Western Australia:

  • Cameron Green – Green is inarguably the next big thing to come out of Australian Cricket along with Will Pucovski of Victoria. Green made his debut against India during the last summer and impressed with his range of shots with the bat. He was not able to make an impact with the ball and is still wicketless in Test Cricket. He will be looking to change that this summer and is one to watch out for.
  • Josh Inglis – After impressing the selectors in white ball cricket, Inglis will look to battle it out with Carey for the wicket keeper spot to replace Tim Paine. He averages 34.45 with the bat so far in FC cricket but his glovework has left many experts impressed and can give a tough fight to Alex Carey.

Queensland:

  • Usman Khawaja – After revealing that he and Langer are still on great terms, Khawaja will look to start the season with a bang against Tasmania and get the runs on the board from the get go. He has dropped out of favour of the selectors since the Ashes of 2019 but is still one of the best bats going around in domestic cricket.
  • Bryce Street – The 23-year-old opening bat averages 38 with the bat in 16 FC matches. That average will only keep increasing as we see more of him. A batsman who fits the mould of the traditional Test batsman, Street likes to occupy the crease for long periods and Australia will need someone like him at the top if Warner has to play his natural game.
  • Michael Neser – Neser has been around the Australian set up for a while now but hasn’t quite able to make the cut for the baggy green. With five Tests coming up he will definitely look to give selectors plenty of reasons to pick him ahead of some of the other bowlers. He has been one the best bowlers in domestic circuit for the past couple of years.
  • Mitchell Swepson – Having made his white-ball debut last summer, Swepson made an impact by grabbing the big wicket of Kohli. Averaging just 23 from five matches and grabbing 32 wickets in the 2020-21 season, he is one to watch out for to replace Lyon after his retirement.

Tasmania:

  • Jake Doran – The 24-year-old is another wicket-keeper batsman who will try and impress his fellow counterpart and state captain Tim Paine. Jake Doran has not impressed a lot with the bat averaging only 29 but he has definitely impressed with the gloves and is one to watch out for the future
  • Matthew Wade – Time and again the selectors have backed Wade to come good in the test arena and time and again he has failed to live up to the expectations. Averaging just 29 from 36 Tests, he played the last summer against India as a specialist bat. The returns were below average but Wade is an experienced campaigner and will look to seal a spot for the Ashes with some strong performances early on.

Victoria:

  • Will Pucovski – Pucovski impressed everyone and lived up to his hype by scoring a 60 on debut against the mighty Indian bowling attack. His summer was cut short with a shoulder injury but he will be raring to go and fight for that opening spot alongside Warner for the Ashes.
  • James Pattinson – Pattinson has always been on the side lines of the Australian setup just due to the fact that the current fast bowlers are probably one of the best in the world. But with Starc out of form, Pattinson will be looking to make his mark on the domestic season in order to get a go in the 5-match series against England.

New South Wales:

  • Jason Sangha – Sangha has been talked about for quite a while now but ha never performed up to his full potential in the Sheffield Shield. He will look to change that this summer and put in strong performances so the selectors will take notice. Sangha is definitely one of the next line of batters who will look t replace the current line up after they retire in 3-4 years’ time.
  • Kurtis Patterson – The man with the highest test average of 144 has been forgotten due to the lack of performances after his mammoth series against Sri Lanka a few years back.  Patterson will be looking to make sure that he showcases his best red ball abilities and get back into the number 5 batting spot.

Written by Nash Sant. Follow Nash on Twitter today

Why are the Mumbai Indians struggling in the UAE leg?

Vaibhav Tripathi
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Why are the Mumbai Indians struggling in the UAE leg?

Cricket News: Why are the Mumbai Indians struggling in the UAE leg? | Why are MI struggling in the UAE in IPL 2021 phase 2?

Mumbai Indians were fourth on the points table of IPL 2021 when the season was halted in May due to the COVID-19 scare. Their return to the UAE, a place with happy memories, was expected to elevate them higher on the table.

But six days into the tournament in the UAE, Mumbai have been far from convincing. The defending champions are reeling at seventh position in the tournament, with 8 points in 10 matches. They have played three games thus far since the resumption of the cash-rich league in UAE and have lost all three of them. Due to the consecutive big losses, against Kolkata and Bangalore, Mumbai’s Net Run Rate has also taken a major hit and is currently at -0.55.

With only four matches left for the five-time winners, the players need to pull up their socks as the race for the playoffs is on and Mumbai’s chances are fainting with every passing game.

So, where is Rohit Sharma’s team lacking as they hunt for the third consecutive title? We explore the reasons behind MI’s poor show thus far in the season.

Over-reliance on Kieron Pollard to finish off the innings:

Kieron Pollard is one of Mumbai’s most iconic players. Time and time again the big man from the Caribbean has proved his worth and has won so many games single handedly while wearing MI’s blue jersey.

He has been the spine of the lower middle order over the past few years. But since the start of the UAE leg of IPL 2021, Pollard hasn’t quite turned up for his franchise and the result is the failure of the batting group. Hardik Pandya, who’s been donning the finishing duties alongside Pollard has played only one game and couldn’t do much in that single game.

The Pandya brothers haven’t been able to support Pollard enough in this edition of the IPL which has added to Mumbai’s woes. The Paltan fans will have to worry a bit if the middle order continues to perform the way they’ve been doing this season as they’ll fall far behind in the race to the playoffs which means the dream of winning three IPL titles will remain a dream for five-time champs.

Krunal Pandya – Team’s weakest link at the moment

If this was 2017, Krunal would’ve been in the top rated players’ list of the franchise. But, sadly for MI, since the beginning of IPL 2021 he hasn’t been able to do the things that the franchise expect him to do with the ball and bat. Because of his diminishing all-round returns he’s been at the target of the critics.

It’ll not sound very harsh if someone says that the senior Pandya is the weakest link of Mumbai’s regular playing XI as he has been average with the ball and below average with the bat. He’s often been found clueless in both disciplines and that means he’s eating one spot up in the eleven.

Mumbai has shown faith in him as he has repaid the trust but time is running out for the Baroda all-rounder and also for his team. Mumbai can even try someone like Anukul Roy, who’s known for turning the ball unlike Krunal, and can be a handy option with the bat too. And if they persist with Krunal then he needs to show up or the playoffs gate will be closed for the reigning champions.

Struggles of Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan

MI’s batting has been a major worry for the franchise as their mainstays with the willow, including Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan, have been struggling for runs. One of the big reasons behind MI’s title defense last year was the rise of Ishan Kishan in the middle order. Ishan along with Suryakumar Yadav has taken a lot of load from the top order as well as from the lower middle order.

But they haven’t come good for them this season which is the reflection of the team’s poor show in the ongoing edition of the tournament. Both Ishan and Surya have been the middle-order enforcer in the team and they provide the steam to the batting group which has been lacking this season. The poor run of form of both the MI batters is one of the big reasons why they are yet to get a win for themselves in the second phase of the IPL 2021.

Because of the presence of Surya and Ishan in the middle, Mumbai Indians usually score at a quick rate in the middle overs. Both of them are flamboyant and also skillful enough to score against any bowling group. However, the openers have been doing their part but lack of support from the middle order is the root cause of Mumbai Indians’ problems this season. The right-left combination of Ishan and Surya holds the important key to Mumbai’s success and if they want to get back to winning ways then these two need to step up in all the remaining fixtures to give their team the best chance at the IPL title.

MI has always been the slow starters in the tournament; their first title also came in 2013 since the inaugural edition of the tournament. The team knows how to bounce back from any situation and reach the playoffs. MI can still qualify for playoffs but they need to perform exceptionally well and resolve all the concerns soon. Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Pollard, Bumrah, Boult can win the matches single-handedly for them, they just need to find their individual form quickly.

Written by Vaibhav Tripathi. Follow Vaibhav on Twitter today.

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