SRH looking to stay away from do or die zone as they take on RR team

Fresh from a three-day break Sunrisers Hyderabad would be desperate to get a victory when they take on a confident Rajasthan Royals team at Dubai International Stadium. Mid-table muddle is such that it could be another potential four-pointer on cards. Royals had a comfortable win courtesy their first innings bowling and then Butler taking the team across finish line along with Smith.

Hyderabad is coming on the back of three losses which they will feel should have won, especially the last one against KKR. Their middle-order batting is a cause of concern and it’s important for them to start firing as WarnerBairstow duo will have off days as a batsman. Priyam, Manish, Williamson (if fit) have to lift their game so that their bowlers can have something to defend. Their bowlers have been good in the first half of innings but have lacked the execution in death overs which have resulted from them in giving 10-15 runs more.

Rajasthan Royals

Rashid has also gone for some runs but also the batsman have played him out to attack other bowlers. They have to win every match from now onwards and also have the advantage of positive net run-rate which could be a decisive factor for 4th slot in last week of league matches. Royals who were very good in all departments against a lacklustre CSK side and won the game comfortably. Their team looks strong because of better middle-order batting.

In the previous encounter between both teams, Tewatia and Parag combined to score 60 in 25 balls to chase down a par score. They have shifted Butler to middle-order which has given them more middle-order strength. Smith, Uthappa, Stokes have been among runs but management would hope to see Samson get back in some form as has been totally off-colour in last 7 matches. Their bowling still looks shaky with 3rd pace bowler still an area of concern. Archer who has been magnificent till now will look to continue the good run as he has been difficult to hit even in death overs well by hitting hard lengths.

A win for Royals will take them to 10 points and they will be vying for 4th slot to reach playoffs. Royals have won the last match, look good as a batting unit and will start the match as favourites.