DD vs KKR: Pitch report and statistical preview
What's the story
Struggling Delhi Daredevils face a stern challenge when they take on Kolkata Knight Riders in match number 26 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018. The hosts have lost three successive encounters and stay bottom of the table with just one win from six matches. KKR would want to bounce back in style after a defeat against KXIP at the Eden Gardens.
Pitch talks
Pitch to have plenty in store
The Kotla pitch will bring a lot for the bowlers as seen in the previous game. Spinners would be positive with the pitch likely to hold a bit. Pacers could also be amongst the wickets as Trent Boult and Liam Plunkett showed in the previous match. The conditions are expected to be hot in the evening with reports stating temperatures to be around mid-30s.
Focus
Focus would be on Gambhir
Gautam Gambhir stepped down as Daredevils captain after leading in just six matches this season. 85 runs in five innings and five losses out of six forced the champion southpaw to take this decision. All eyes will be on the veteran player, how he approaches his batting in the next couple of matches. Delhi need Gambhir to contribute immensely atop.
Data
KKR spinners a worry for Delhi batsmen
KKR trio Piyush Chawla, Sunil Narine and Kuldeep Yadav have been performing well. They have 19 wickets between them and were top class against Daredevils earlier this season at the Eden Gardens and guided KKR to a 71-run win.
Numbers game
Stat attack- DD vs KKR
Sunil Narine has enjoyed bowling against DD. He has 17 wickets at an average of 16.65. Piyush Chawla has accounted for the dismissal of Glenn Maxwell thrice in IPL in just 31 balls. Chawla is also approaching a special feat and this game would be his 200th T20 match. Trent Boult has nine wickets and needs two to get the Purple Cap.