IPL 2021: RR restrict KKR to just 133/9
What's the story
Rajasthan Royals were brilliant with the ball as Kolkata Knight Riders' inconsistency came to fore in the 18th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 season on Saturday. Put into bat, KKR have managed a below-par total of 133/9 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. RR will fancy their chances to claim a victory here. Here's the mid-innings report.
PP overs
KKR struggle in the first six overs
KKR had a dismal period in the powerplay overs, managing 25/1. The cautious approach didn't work as RR grew in confidence with some fine bowling. Shubman Gill, who looked uncomfortable at the crease, was run out in the sixth over. Nitish Rana consumed 17 balls as well for just 12. This was a poor start from KKR on a decent batting surface.
KKR batting
KKR's batting a matter of concern
KKR, who lost their shape against CSK in the last match (31/5), chasing 221, were once again thrown under the mat here. They were reduced to 61/4 in the 11th over. KKR made it look like there were demons on the pitch. Yes, RR did bowl well and pitched the balls in the right areas, but KKR didn't show intent.
Decision
KKR's decision to send Russell at seven is baffling
KKR opting to go with Andre Russell at number seven is pretty baffling. Sending the likes of Sunil Narine and Dinesh Karthik ahead of the big-hitting West Indian was a bad move. Narine departed cheaply as DK struggled to get going, consuming deliveries. Given that KKR struggled to get runs, they needed Russell's power much earlier. He came to bat in the 16th over.
RR bowlers
RR bowlers terrific with the ball
After being pelted by RCB the other other day, RR bowlers gave a strong account of themselves. Jaydev Unadkat (1/15) was a star man with the ball. He bowled intelligently. Mustafizur Rahman (1/22) bowled a lot of slower deliveries to perfection. Chetan Sakariya and Chris Morris were terrific as well and didn't allow KKR any space. This was a mature show with variations aplenty.