Time – 4.00 p.m (IST)

Kings XI Punjab began this season with a commanding win over Pune Warriors, but lost the plot as they lost two games in a row. Kolkata Knight Riders, on the other hand, pulled off a comprehensive 48-run victory over a mediocre Sunrisers. Kings XI Punjab would be hoping for a turnaround, while Kolkata Knight Riders would look to continue with the good work.

For the Kings XI Punjab, they don’t have quality Indian players. They heavily rely on Gilchrist, David Hussey and Azhar Mahmood. Gilchrist hasn’t played a delightful innings for his side, however, has done a pretty good job on-field. David Hussey, the future star of Australian Cricket, bats down the order, which is not a good sign for the Kings XI Punjab. He generally comes under pressure situations that force him to steady the innings, which does not suit his batting style. However, the only ingredient that can keep them in the competition is their bowling attack. Praveen Kumar, Awana and Azhar Mahmood are generally good bowlers with the new-ball. The surface at Mohali would ideally suit them as it would be a typical Mohali wicket. They lost to Chennai Super Kings at home, and therefore, Gilchirst would be hoping for a good performance from his team at home. Also, Kings XI Punjab are waiting for the fitness of Shaun Marsh, who is yet to arrive in India. They need him badly sooner than later.

Kolkata Knight Riders, on the other hand, outclassed the mediocre Sunrisers Hyderabad. Gambhir scored a brilliant half-century that set the platform for Eoin Morgan to exploit in the last 7 overs. Kallis also played a brilliant innings off 41 and also grabbed three important wickets that made the run-chase stiff for the Sunrisers Hyderabad. At the moment, Kolkata looks a well-balanced side, and Kings XI pace-attack, would certainly be a challenge for Gambhir. They should bring Brett Lee back into the squad as the wicket would offer something for the pace-bowlers.

Pitch and Conditions

It is a typical Mohali wicket as it has something for the fast bowlers. The conditions are hot at Mohali, and since the match begins at 4’o clock, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to bat first.

Watch out for….

Kings XI Punjab’s pace attack: They have a formidable pace-attack as they can pose problems to the world’s greatest batsman on display. Praveen Kumar is generally a fabulous bowler with the new-ball, and Azhar Mahmood can beat the batsman with his pace. Awana and few other bowlers have good-pace and have got the seam movement as well. If they can strike early, then Kolkata’s batting would certainly be tested.

Eoin Morgan – Having played a wonderful innings against the Sunrisers Hyderabad, Morgan would look to keep the rhythm going when they face Kings XI Punjab. He found his form at the right moment, and Morgan would be a significant player as he is used to the type of Mohali wicket. It would be interesting to see his approach against the Kings XI Punjab pace-bowlers.

Prediction

It is a typical Mohali wicket that has something for the pace-bowlers. Both sides are evenly matched, but Punjab have a slight edge over the Knight Riders as they are familiar with the home conditions. The toss wouldn’t play a critical role as Punjab have a formidable pace-attack. They must get the batting order right. However, their batting looks a bit strange in the absence of Shaun Marsh. Kings XI Punjab, therefore, would require an extraordinary bowling performance to outclass Kolkata Knight Riders.

0 votes