CSK vs KKR: Pitch report and statistical preview
Chennai Super Kings host the Kolkata Knight Riders in an enthralling encounter at the Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Both sides head into this fixture on the back of wins in their opening matches of the IPL 2018 season. CSK have a better head-to-head record on this ground against the Knights and will want to capitalize on the same. Here is the statistical preview.
Stat attack: CSK vs KKR scores over the years
The highest total notched by CSK at the Chidambaram Stadium against KKR is 200/3. The highest total scripted by KKR on this ground is 192/5 in their title winning campaign in 2012. The lowest total by KKR here (132/9) was scored on April 28, 2015. CSK's lowest score against KKR is 134/6 in the same match. CSK enjoy a 5-2 record on this ground.
CSK's domination against KKR
Out of 17 ties between the two sides in IPL, CSK have won 10 with one match washed out. CSK's biggest margin of victory against KKR is by 55 runs achieved at the Eden Gardens in 2010. Their biggest margin of victory is by 9 wickets on this venue in 2008. Their lowest ever score in IPL against KKR is 114/4 at Eden Gardens.
KKR's record against CSK over the years
KKR have won 6 out of 17 games against Chennai. Their biggest win against CSK is by 10 runs, which they achieved in 2011. KKR's biggest win against Dhoni's side, in terms of wickets (8), was notched in the year 2014. Both these wins came at the Eden Gardens. Robin Uthappa is KKR's highest scorer in the last two meetings between these sides.
Key battles to watch for in CSK vs KKR
Sunil Narine hit a 17-ball fifty against RCB in the first match and was exceptional against the spinners. His approach against the veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh will be key. Harbhajan has the experience to stop Narine early on. Kuldeep Yadav against Suresh Raina will be a test. The in-form wrist spinner will lure the southpaw to go hard at him and make a mistake.
Pitch report CSK vs KKR
The pitch is likely to be efficient for spinners and therefore one can expect both teams to go in with a three-man spin attack. Runs are expected to flow on the other end as well.
