KKR vs RR: Match preview, head-to-head records and pitch report
What's the story
Kolkata Knight Riders will be looking to break the shackles after five successive losses in the ongoing 12th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). They face Rajasthan Royals in match number 43 of IPL 2019. It is a must-win scenario for both teams to stay alive this season. Here is the detailed match preview.
KKR batting
KKR need to find the art of consistency
Kolkata haven't batted consistently during the tournament. They need to get their acts right at home where the results have evaded them. One cannot just depend on an in-form Andre Russell for the fireworks. Also, he needs to be promoted higher up the order so that he can face maximum deliveries. Chris Lynn and Nitish Rana have enjoyed some form and need to deliver.
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KKR's bowling needs massive improvement against RR
KKR bowlers have been hammered on most occasions in IPL 12 and that needs to change. Someone will need to bear the responsibility. The spinners in particular have been creamed at will. The eastern giants will need to pull up their socks and come good.
RR batting
RR need to put up a strong batting display
RR have been batting well in recent times, but they have a job in hand. Jos Buttler left the tourney last week. The onus will be on Ajinkya Rahane and Sanju Samson. Rahane scored a sublime ton in the previous match against Delhi. Steve Smith will hope to fire the goods before leaving for World Cup preparations. Ashton Turner has failed miserably.
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Bowling a worry for depleted Royals
RR's bowling just like KKR haven't done well on a regular basis. Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes could miss the tie as they are expected to leave for England. RR will need to find answers and count on the same quickly.
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Pitch report, TV listing and timing
The pitch is expected to assist batsmen as seen in the last few matches. Teams batting first will need to score in excess of 190. Both teams are vulnerable, it could be an even contest. The match is scheduled to start at 8:00 PM IST. One can watch the match live on the Star Sports Network and can stream the same on Hotstar app.
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Head-to-head meetings between the two teams
The two teams have met on 20 occasions in the IPL. KKR have won 10 matches, while RR have managed to win nine games. One match ended in no result.