A tremendous victory over the Chennai Super Kings, saw the Kolkata Knight Riders soar up in the points table and get back on track. The Knights were supreme in every department over the Super Kings as they put on a dominant display. Now, the Knights face another challenge from the Kings, this time being in the form of the Punjab Kings, who have had a great tournament so far. Both teams lock horns in PBKS’ home as we are in for an exciting showdown between two powerhouse sides. While KKR will be looking to win back-to-back, the Kings will be aiming to stop them in their tracks with both teams in similar positions in the tournament.

HEAD-TO-HEAD

Historically, KKR have been far superior to PBKS in the head-to-head record with a comfortable 21-12 lead. However, in the last 5 contested games, the competition has been tough yet KKR lead the scoreboard there as well with 3-2. A great record against PBKS will boost KKR’s confidence to best their opponents yet again and climb up into the points table. PBKS on the other hand, will be reeling from their loss against SRH and will be facing an uphill matchup in terms of facing KKR next.

PITCH & GROUND CONDITIONS

The two contested games in New Chandigarh have been a mixed bag in terms of results for PBKS but as far as the pitch is concerned, it has been a consistent belter to bat on. With close to 800 runs amassed in the two games played here this year, one can expect a lot of fireworks yet again in the PBKS-KKR contest. Dew will as always be a factor of consideration for both captains yet, the good news is both the defending teams have been able to win the two games here so far at Chandigarh.

The Big Matchup: KKR’s formidable batting order vs PBKS’ bowling attack

One of the key things to watch out for in this game would be how the KKR batters tackle the versatility of the PBKS bowling attack. The Knights have batters lined up in the order who have proficiency to play both spin and pace well. With a bowling attack who has suffered a big loss, PBKS will be vary of the KKR batting order and the Knights will be aiming to exploit this advantage. An exciting contest will be on show as these two sides clash with important points up for the grabs.

Key Stats to watch out for

  • Ajinkya Rahane is 4 fours away from 500 fours in IPL.
  • Sunil Narine is 4 sixes away from 100 sixes in India in T20s
  • Varun Chakaravarthy is 4 wickets away from 150 wickets in T20s
  • Quinton de Kock is 1 four away from 1100 fours in T20s.
  • Ramandeep Singh is 5 sixes away from 50 sixes in T20s.