IPL 2020, CSK VS RR: Both teams fight to stay in IPL race

Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals take on each other at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi knowing that one more defeat and it will be a dent in their already slim okay offs chances. Both teams are sailing in the same boat, have been inconsistent and disappointing and hence are languishing at 6th and 7th place respectively. Both teams have lost their respective games in a contrasting manner.

The Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi will host Match 37 of #Dream11IPL 2020 when #CSK face #RR today.

Preview by @ameyatilak https://t.co/MEg19Xm9VM #Dream11IPL pic.twitter.com/vUxm1fXgQD

— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) October 19, 2020

CSK were sloppy in a field missing run-out chances and dropping centurion Shikhar Dhawan three times in key phases of the game to lose a game which they should have won. They were also not helped by an injury to Dwayne Bravo who could not bowl the last over and looks likely to be out for few more games. Delhi required 17 in last over and with Bravo injured, Dhoni had to give over to Jadeja and with two left-handers at crease Jadeja was not able to defend it.

Royals, on the other hand, were undone by the genius of Devillers who talked Unadkat for 25 in 19th over, when 35 were required in 2 overs. Archer who was then given only 10 to defend and with Devillers in hitting zone, was not able to defend the target. Archer should have been given the 19th over, but Smith thought otherwise and paid the price for it.

Both teams have to find ways of winning and then continue for remaining games. CSK might bring Hazlewood/Ngidi in place of Bravo or might give Tahir a chance if they think wicket will aid soon more. Dhoni would also hope that batsman would perform the same way as they did against Delhi Capitals and would also like to contribute more as a batsman. Royals would be happy to see Uthappa and Smith scoring some runs and would hope that Samson gets back to best soon.

There might be the possibility of bringing Miller in place of Stokes who looked struggling while fielding against RCB and has not been able to score big in opportunities provided. The team that loses will be most likely be out of the race for playoffs. Both teams are low on confidence and it’s difficult to predict a straight forward winner. But Royals have defeated CSK in the first leg of tournament and start as favourites but just.