Following a three-wicket win over hosts Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Rajasthan Royals (RR) have moved up a place to be at No.7 spot on the IPL 2019 points table, based on a better net run-rate than Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Now, Rajasthan will take on Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at Jaipur on Saturday. Before describing Rajasthan Royals’ Predicted Playing XI, the hosts are in all sorts of bother.
Soon after the game against Dinesh Karthik-led KKR, Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer have returned to England. Royals were solely relying on their foreign recruits.
On the other side, SRH are placed fourth with 10 points in their kitty. They have flaws to iron out before making it to their crucial game at Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur.
All in all, Royals would like to spoil the party of SRH side, whereas, the visitors would be aware of the potential threats.
Here we’re with Rajasthan Royals’ Predicted Playing XI:
Ajinkya Rahane:
Ajinkya Rahane has been in good touch. In the previous game against, KKR, Rahane backed himself to score 21-ball 34. He would be eyeing to record a home win against the SRH.
Sanju Samson:
The wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson has a lot on his shoulders at the top. Despite some decent starts, he couldn’t build up his innings. While having a hundred on his back in this season, Samson would not want to repeat the mistake following a victory at KKR’s den.
Steven Smith:
Skipper Steven Smith has done a bulk of the job for the Royals. He had an off-day against KKR when he scored just two off six deliveries. Since shouldering the responsibility as a leader, Smith used his resources well and delivered with the bat at the top.
Given his experience, he’s ready to take the onus on himself.
Riyan Parag:
Riyan Parag, the 17-year-old Guwahati-born youngster, is rising against the tide. He has played some excellent knocks to exhibit his talent. In the previous game, he scored 47 off 31-balls before getting out while being deemed as a hit wicket.
He has the potential to play big innings.
Ashton Turner:
Despite bagging three golden ducks against Kings XI Punjab, Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals, Ashton Turner is expected to fill in the all-rounder’s role for Ben Stokes.
Turner is capable of playing a whirlwind knock given to his liking for big shots.
Stuart Binny:
Stuart Binny didn’t get a chance to bowl against the KKR. But with a couple of players missing, he has a significant role to play in the upcoming game. He has been handy with the bat at the fag end of the innings too.
Shreyas Gopal:
Shreyas Gopal would be aiming to improve on his bowling part. Despite a wicket in the previous game, Gopal would seek to curtail runs for the batters. However, the cameo of nine-ball 18 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata has helped his team’s cause of late.
Ish Sodhi:
The prominent Kiwis bowler Ish Sodhi has managed to bag a solitary wicket. While considering his experience, he could play a vital role at the home venue.
So far, he has played seven IPL matches since 2018.
Jaydev Unadkat:
With nothing much on offer, Jaydev Unadkat has leaked runs in the previous game. However, Smith is expected to back his bowler. Unadkat has bagged seven wickets in nine matches.
Oshane Thomas:
Oshane Thomas has snared a wicket in his debut IPL matches. Overall, the bowler has shown grit and impressed many with his role. He would be keen to make an impact following a nervous start.
Varun Aaron:
Speedster Varun Aaron had bowled his heart out by conceding just 20 runs in his quota of four overs. Thus, he bagged two crucial wickets at the top. So far, he has featured in only two matches for the Royals.
He’s the bowler to watch out for.