IPL 2020, KXIP VS RR: Desperate Royals take on rampaging Kings

mi vs rr

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Rajasthan Royals would lock horns with Kings X1 Punjab at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi in a match where anything less than a win will hamper their progress. Royal’s loose and they are out of the reckoning for playoffs and a defeat for Kings X1 will see their playoff chances getting hit. Royals who defeated Mumbai Indians in the last match comprehensively, have been very inconsistent throughout IPL 2020.

Ben Stokes who was magnificent in his unbeaten century against MI would like to keep going as his contribution at the top makes things easier for another batsman. Royals would be pleased to see Samson getting back to some form. Smith, Butler, Tewatia and Parag should also be itching to give their best. Royals bowling, especially the pace department has been a worry for them.

Mumbai Indians

Apart from Archer other two have been taken to cleaners. Spinners have fared better and gave provided some wickets in late middle overs. Their foreign players need to have a great contribution to increase their chances of winning and they are at such a stage that they cannot afford to have an off day as a team. Punjab on the other side have been the team of the second phase of IPL.

They have won five matches consecutively and with the kind of momentum, they have look favourites to reach playoffs. Chris Gayle presence has been a big boost for them. Kings would hope that Rahul, after three below-par performances comes good with bat. Mayank who was injured, would be available against Royals and Hooda will miss out in such scenario as leaving out Mandeep will be unfair on him.

Their bowling which was their weak link in the first half has been a revelation in the second half and all their bowlers have been sensational with Shami, Jordan showing their class and Arshdeep along with the spinning duo of Morgan and Bishnoi have been exceptional. Arshdeep has been their X factor with immaculate death bowling. Punjab has a much better-performing bowling unit than Royals at present, have won 5 straight games and look a difficult side to beat. Kings X1 look favourites for the clash by virtue of their strong death bowling.