The teams are ready for the do-or-die match to be held at PCA stadium in Mohali on 3rd May. It will prove as a deciding match for one of the teams to improve their chances for the Playoffs. Both Kings XI Punjab and Kolkata Knight Riders have two games to win — to give themselves a chance while relying on SRH’s result too.
KKR though have won the previous match against Mumbai Indians (MI), whereas, KXIP lost to SRH, thanks to David Warner’s match-winning 81 (56). Both the teams have won five of their 12 matches of this IPL. And now to make things difficult for other possibly winning teams, either of them will have to win their both matches.
Ashwin’s Punjab is Going to be Lethal Today:
However, KXIP can come back as a strong opponent with their top-order doing well. They have one of the best batsmen in the world. Chris Gayle, the experienced cricketer can lead the team to set sights on the playoffs single-handedly. And, looking at his last few performances, it is most likely that he will make most of his batting prowess. The southpaw has made an aggregate of 448 in the 11 matches he had played this IPL season.
And it is not Gayle that would boost Punjab for today’s match. They have K L Rahul and Mayank Agarwal as well to back up their team whereas they have the likes of R. Ashwin and Mohammad Shami to trouble KKR batsmen especially the hard-hitting Russell.
Till now, there have been six matches of the tournament on this 22-yard surface, and the teams were able to cross the 150-run mark.
Match Prediction:
Given the changing weather conditions and pitch being more batting friendly. It is expected team batting second could chase down the target.
Moreover, the spinners have a key role to play on a surface which assisted slower bowlers from time to time.
Whereas, with slight humid air in Mohali, it will be somewhat difficult for pacers to grab wickets. The captain winning the toss will most probably opt to field first.
With everything set, Punjab is ready to smash Kolkata and would most likely make it difficult for the guests to make it through.
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