Kolkata Knight Riders still have destiny in their own hands as they take on Chennai Super Kings at Dubai International Stadium. KKR knew that anything less than a victory will hamper their chances for playoffs and pressure would be on them only. CSK are already out of playoff reckoning so can play freely and this makes them more dangerous. KKR have been very lucky in a inning games albeit inconsistent batting throughout the IPL.
Morgan would hope that Dinesh Karthik brings his A game against CSK. Batsman have not been able to rack up consistent performances . Nitish Rana who had a great game against Delhi failed against KingsX1. Two matches to go all batsman have to fire in unison to gave their bowlers something to defend. Their bowling has been better and because if this they have been able to defend some par scores. Varun Chakravarthy has been impressive and has earned a call in Indian T20 team. Pat Cummins has to justify the price tag by providing early breakthroughs as apart from one match he has not been able to take wickets upfront.
Morgan would also want to lead from front that all X1 players put a collective effort. CSK who are playing for pride and had a commanding victory over RCB team. CSK spinners did not have them any freebies and restricted then to a reasonable total to chase down. CSK team would be relieved to see Ruturaj Gaikwad finally showing his talent by scoring a undefeated half century and Dhoni would like to see the young player score more runs and prepare for 2021 season. Rayudu, Duplesis, and others would also want to end season in a high.
Their bowling department has been slightly better and would hope that Chahar, Curran and spinners would replicate their last match performance. CSK would welcome a victory in a season which has been very disappointing for them. KKR have all to play for and a comprehensive victory is what they would be looking for to keep them in hunt and also improve the net run rate . If we look at man to man KKR look strong in every department so start as favourites.
