SRH vs KXIP: Match preview, head-to-head records and pitch report
Sunrisers Hyderabad and Kings XI Punjab get together for an intense battle in match number 48 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2019. Both teams are on 10 points each from 11 matches played this season. It is an important phase in terms of qualification for the playoffs. Here is the detailed match preview.
SRH's middle order the issue
SRH need to sort out the middle order and this is an important period where they cannot offer any lapses. Against the Royals, it was the failure of the middle order that saw them lose the match on Saturday. In-form David Warner is their main bet as usual. Manish Pandey has hit form at a crucial time. But one wants to see more flair.
SRH will look up to their in-form bowlers for productivity
The bowling will rely heavily on Rashid Khan. The Afghan leg-spinner holds the key in providing the impetus for the side. Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Khaleel Ahmed will be the go to bowlers in the pace department. One needs the third Indian pacer to produce substance.
Kings XI Punjab face similar issues like SRH in batting
KXIP have lost their last two games and like SRH, the issue lies with being over dependent on the top order. Chris Gayle is in good touch with the bat. KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal have been able performers. The rest of the batting needs repair work. Nicholas Pooran could be promoted higher and David Miller needs to bat with maturity.
KXIP will aim to have options aplenty with the ball
KXIP need options on the field and will hope to go with at least six bowlers. They need consistency from the bowling department. R Ashwin will need to rally his troops well and get the job done. They will target SRH's middle order.
Pitch report, timing and TV listing
One can expect to see some runs on a good batting surface. Both teams will need to plan properly and not rush things. The hosts would want to see Warner shine in his final game this season. The match is set to be telecast live on the Star Sports Network. It is scheduled to start at 8:00 PM IST.
Head-to-head meetings between the two teams
The two teams have met each other on 13 occasions. SRH have won nine of those games while KXIP have managed to win the remaining 4. In the previous meeting this year, KXIP beat SRH rather comfortably.
