In game number 42 of the ongoing IPL, it will be the Kolkata Knight Riders up against the Punjab Kings at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The two teams had contrasting fortunes and thus far in the tournament with KKR while sitting at 2nd position, Punjab languishing at the penultimate spot. PBKS will hence be itching to get two points out of this game to keep themselves in contention for a play-off spot. KKR, on the other hand, will be looking to further solidify its position. Entertainment is guaranteed as there will be plenty of sensational players on show during the game. Here, we look at the top players to watch out for during the game:
1. Rinku Singh
A player knocking on the doors of the Indian T20 World Cup squad, Rinku Singh has been starved of the opportunities in this IPL season. Despite glimpses of brilliance, reflected in his near 160 strike rate, he hasn’t had a substantial innings to truly showcase his talent. A long stay at the crease, culminating in a big score, could be the springboard he needs to impress selectors, fans, and solidify his claim for a national call-up.
2. Sam Curran
Sam Curran’s acquisition by PBKS ahead of last season was a marquee signing, but his performance thus far hasn’t matched the hefty price tag. His bowling has lacked sting, conceding runs at an economy rate close to 9. His batting hasn’t provided much solace either, with a low strike rate hindering his overall impact. PBKS finds itself in a precarious position in the standings, making a strong performance from Curran even more critical. He’ll be under immense pressure to deliver a well-rounded performance, justifying his selection and silencing the growing criticism surrounding his role as a “bits and pieces” player.
3. Mitchell Starc
Another high-profile signing struggling to find his footing is Mitchell Starc. The left-arm pacer, who is known for his express pace and wicket-taking ability, has been a major concern for KKR. His bowling has been too expensive, leaking runs at an alarming rate of nearly 12 per over. This inconsistency has shaken skipper Shreyas Iyer’s confidence, with Starc being overlooked for crucial overs in recent matches. The upcoming clash presents Starc with a golden opportunity to redeem himself. He needs to rediscover his form and live up to the hefty price tag attached to his name. A match-winning spell could not only turn the tide for KKR but also silence his critics and re-establish him as a force to be reckoned with.
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