It’s a battle of 5th Vs 6th when Sunrisers Hyderabad take on Kings X1 Punjab at Dubai International Stadium. How thing stands this will be a potential four-pointer and whichever teams lose will find hard to reach playoffs on 14 points. Kings X1 will be a confident lot as they have been able to finish matches and are on a three-game winning streak. Gayle’s presence have made them a threat for opposition and likes of Rahul, Mayank can afford to have an off day knowing that Universe Boss is there to take things in his hands.
Let's continue to 𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘦, boys 💪#SaddaPunjab #IPL2020 #KXIP #KXIPvSRH pic.twitter.com/PhP0Kkm30f
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) October 24, 2020
Pooran and Maxwell also scored crucial runs to help them in overcoming challenges of Delhi Capitals side. Their bowling from the last three matches has performed well by restricting the opposition to 170 and below. Shami and young Arshdeep have been brilliant with their lengths and have managed to hit yorker lengths consistently in death overs. Kings X1 are looking a side not ready to throw in the towel and opposition have to be wary of them. For Hyderabad, the journey has been inconsistent one.
They have not been able to close out matches and now are placed in a precarious position in the table. Their last match victory against Royals should give them a lot of confidence as even after losing both openers early SRH side managed to win the match in a canter thanks to the brilliance of Manish Pandey and supporting role of Vijay Shankar. Their middle-order batting was a problem for them and last match performance will make them feel better.
Holder’s addition gives them all-round stability as he bowls 4 overs and can score quick runs as well. SRH bowling has been their strength and has done well throughout. The matchups between Kings batters and Sunrisers bowling could very well decide the outcome of the match. Kings X1, who are on a run, start the match as favourites.
