KXIP vs SRH: Chris Gayle's performance against Rashid Khan
The evening game of Saturday's double-header will see Kings XI Punjab take on Sunrisers Hyderabad. At this stage, both the teams must be eying the all-important playoffs spot. The KXIP batting set-up, which earlier looked bleak, has been fueled with the return of Chris Gayle. Meanwhile, the SRH would want to restrict the Universe Boss first up. Let us analyze Gayle's performance against Rashid.
A look at the battle
Gayle is the eighth-highest run-scorer in the IPL, having amassed 4,590 runs from 128 matches at 40.98. On the other hand, Rashid owns 67 wickets in 56 matches, including a best-match haul of 3/12. So far, Gayle has managed to score 43 runs off 19 balls by Rashid, while Rashid has dismissed him only once. It shows Gayle has had the edge over Rashid.
Gayle vs SRH, Rashid vs KXIP
Gayle boasts a decent record against SRH in the IPL. Thus far, he has racked up 367 runs from 13 games at a strike-rate of 148.58. This tally also includes 31 sixes and 23 fours. Besides, Rashid has 14 wickets from seven games against KXIP.
Interesting numbers of Gayle and Rashid (middle overs)
Gayle has been a nightmare for bowlers so far. Once set, he single-handedly sways the game away from the opposition. His numbers state that he operates well in the middle overs. Gayle has a strike-rate of 171.43 in the middle overs against SRH, having scored 96 runs from 13 matches. Similarly, Rashid has claimed 12 scalps at 8.50 in these overs against KXIP.
What to expect?
The KXIP have made huge strides since the previous week, having surged from the last spot. Their counterparts SRH too have had endured mixed results lately. As far as Gayle's form is concerned, he has looked in terrific touch with scores of 53, 24 and 29. Interestingly, spinners dismissed him in the last two games. Hence, SRH will likely back Rashid to outfox him.
