Before the game against Ajinkya Rahane-led Rajasthan Royals (RR), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) returned to their winning ways following a whirlwind knock of 13-ball 18 by Andre Russell. The Windies rockstar slammed six massive sixes during his incredible innings on Friday night. Before briefing about the KKR’s predicted playing XI, Royals, too, know how to register a thumping comeback in the ongoing IPL 2019 at their home base Jaipur.
However, KKR won their third game by five wickets and five balls to spare. The visitors chased down a total of 206 in 19.1 overs against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Bengaluru.
Meanwhile, struggling Rajasthan has just a victory under their belt in four games. Concurrently, they’re placed seventh on the IPL points table 2019.
Let’s have a look at the predicted XI of Kolkata Knight Riders for match number 21 of the IPL 2019 against Rajasthan Royals at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur.
Chris Lynn:
Big-hitting sensation Chris Lynn, who looked off-colour in first three outing, returned with 43 in the previous game of 31 deliveries. Known for timing the ball well, Lynn is eyeing for massive innings. He is there to continue opening for the confident KKR.
Sunil Narine:
While failing to provide an early impetus in the last game against mediocre RCB, Sunil Narine will like to give a brisk start to KKR. Known for his power-hitting Narine has also the fastest half-century to his name.
His introduction at the top is all about unsettling the opposition’s bowling department. Let’s wait for his pyrotechnics.
Robin Uthappa:
At the top, Robin Uthappa is more of an engine of a bus. He has to focus on what’s happening around. The senior campaigner had faced 25 balls for his 33 runs against RCB.
Uthappa’s inclusion further strengthens the core as he has the knack to keep the scoreboard ticking irrespective of conditions.
Nitish Rana:
With the beginning of IPL 2019, Nitish Rana had a spectacular start to the season. He has brought stability to the KKR while scoring runs across the dial. The promising youngster would be keen to perform in Jaipur.
He had slammed 23-ball 37 which included two sixes and a four.
Dinesh Karthik:
Dinesh Karthik might be looking a bit tired, but his efforts as a leader can’t be ignored. Karthik has marshalled his troops well which further saw him bringing desired results in KKR’s favour.
Andre Russell:
Dre Russ is phenomenal. He’s the nightmare for the bowlers and, all in all, a saviour for KKR.
His domination with the bat has been remarkable and has subsequently done well with the ball. Also, he has been acrobatic on the field. His inclusion is enough to instil fear among the opponents.
Shubman Gill:
The promising batsman Shubman Gill has gone from strength to strength. He’s keen to be among the runs to continue growing leaps and bounds.
Known for responding to his role well, Gill has been a youngster to look at. On such basis, the exciting prospect is potential to win games for his team.
Piyush Chawla:
The old guard in the line is leg-spinner, Piyush Chawla. He knows his job well. Also, he proves to be a helping hand for the chinaman, Kuldeep Yadav. Even though going wicketless in the previous outing, Chawla knows how to return stronger.
Kuldeep Yadav:
The wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav is best in business and with the white-ball, he turns altogether a different bowler for the batters. Owing to his rapid rise in the international fold, Kuldeep would be keen to weave spin web against Royals in their own den.
Lockie Ferguson:
Lockie Ferguson has received a bit of beating while conceding 32 runs in two overs. However, he is expected to continue given his ability to pick wickets.
Ferguson brings in variety in the bowling department.
Prasidh Krishna:
Prasidh Krishna has gained some confidence after bowling as Super Over against Delhi Capitals (DC). He has shown some early fizz and is touted to go a long way. Despite leaking runs in the previous fixture against RCB, Karthik will stick to the youngster – to see the youngster delivering according to the expectations.