RCB vs KKR: Match preview, head-to-head records and pitch report
What's the story
Out of sorts Royal Challengers Bangalore will be up against Kolkata Knight Riders in match number 17 of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) on Friday. RCB are yet to get off the mark after facing four consecutive losses. KKR have won twice and lost a Super Over tie against Delhi. It promises to be an exciting battle. Here's the detailed match preview.
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Head-to-head meetings between the two sides
The two teams have met each other on 23 occasions in the IPL. The men in purple and gold have won 14 matches. RCB have pocketed nine. At the Chinnaswamy, KKR have sealed six victories. RCB have managed four wins.
RCB batting
RCB face plenty of questions in the batting department
RCB haven't quite found it going with the bat in IPL 2019. The batsmen haven't applied themselves in the four matches till now. Things need to change in the way RCB have approached the innings while batting. Virat Kohli will want to play a big innings and hope that a few batsmen revolve around him. It is a crucial phase for RCB.
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Coulter-Nile likely to feature, Chahal is the main focus
Yuzvendra Chahal has done well with the ball. He has picked up eight wickets already. But the wrist-spinner needs support. That has been lacking up till now. We could see the introduction of Nathan Coulter-Nile. He can bring some solidity. Umesh Yadav could make way.
KKR batting
KKR will hope that the openers join the party
One area KKR will need to work upon is the opening department. Chris Lynn needs to take charge. A big innings is due from the Australian. Sunil Narine is in line to make a return and that could bolster the side. Andre Russell's heroics at the death could be decisive. The presence of well equipped names in the middle order is a boost.
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KKR spinners need to come together as a unit
Russell has been contributing for KKR with the ball. His presence is huge. Lockie Ferguson will generate the pace in bowling and he will be supported by Prasidh Krishna. The spinners haven't quite performed well. They need to come together and produce substance.
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RCB vs KKR: Pitch report, TV listing and timing
The Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru has always been a high-scoring ground, so anything in excess of 180 runs will be at par. Dew might play a factor as well. The match is scheduled for a 08:00 PM IST start. The match will be telecast live on the Star Sports Network and can be streamed on Hotstar app as well.