As the Kolkata Knight Riders bask in the glory of the win against MI and becoming the first team to qualify for the playoffs, their next challenge awaits as they face the Gujarat Titans next in Ahmedabad. KKR have been on a roll for the whole season and they would be looking to add to their tally of wins as they hope to win 5 games in a row. All throughout the season, KKR have laid out solid team performances and different individuals have stood up different situations to help KKR bag the victory. In their upcoming game they clash against a strong unit like GT in their home with both teams coming off wins in their previous season. The last time KKR faced GT in Ahmedabad, that game was etched in the history books with Rinku’s 5 iconic sixes and everyone will be hoping to have another incredible game at the majestic Narendra Modi Stadium, as two strong teams clash against each other.
PITCH AND GROUND CONDITIONS
The Ahmedabad stadium has served many kinds of pitches throughout this season where some have assisted the seamers and the spinners while the others have been belter of batting surfaces. One can expect another great batting surface similar to the one used in the previous game in Ahmedabad but with the rain forecast going around in Ahmedabad, there could be a few surprises in the pitch with dew also potentially being a factor.
PLAYERS TO WATCH OUT FOR
Rinku Singh
Rinku’s life completely changed last year at this very stadium when he smashed 5 sixes in the last over to win KKR the game and again everyone will be cheering him on as he steps onto the same ground hoping to replicate a similar performance. In whatever chances he’s received this year, Rinku has made the most of it and he will be eyeing for a strong performance to help his team clinch another victory.
Nitish Rana
After making a successful comeback in the last over after a severe finger injury, Nitish Rana would be looking to continue the momentum and deliver another impressive innings for the team. Nitish played a crucial knock in the last game to help KKR reach a fighting total and eventually winning the game and he will be eyeing to deliver another similar performance in the next game against GT.
Varun Chakaravarthy
Varun has been terrific with the ball all throughout the season as has picked up 18 wickets already. He has been top notch in all phases of the game and delivered crucial wickets under pressure situations, time and time again. Varun will be looking to add to his tally and make this season his best ever season for KKR with the ball and help the team clinch another important win.
KEY MATCH-UP
A battle of the spin-twins - Rashid & Noor vs Narine & Chakaravarthy
Both the teams pride themselves on their spin bowling contingent and spin has been their strength all along. In the upcoming encounter, it will be a clash of the spin-duos from both the sides on a ground with comparatively longer boundaries on either side. It will be exciting to see which duo makes the most of the conditions and picks up more wickets to put their team ahead in the contest.
