5 reasons why Sunrisers shouldn't take Kolkata Knight Riders lightly
What's the story
Table toppers Sunrisers Hyderabad missed out on a place in 2018 IPL final after a heartbreaking loss to Chennai Super Kings in Qualifier 1. They have a chance to redeem themselves when they travel to the Eden Gardens to lock horns with KKR in the virtual semi-final. However, it's not going to be an easy task for Hyderabad. Here's why.
Under pressure
Shikhar Dhawan's poor record in the IPL play-offs
Shikhar Dhawan is Sunrisers Hyderabad's second highest run scorer this season with 437 runs at an average of 39.72 and a strike rate of 139.17. However, his past performances in the play-offs should be a matter of concern for the Orange Army. In 9 play-off games, Dhawan has scored only 99 runs at an average of 11.00 with a top score of 33.
Not enough runs
Middle-order woes continue to haunt them
Maximum runs for Sunrisers Hyderabad have come from the bats of Kane Williamson (685) and Shikhar Dhawan (437). It means their middle order has not been doing enough work to win them games. The likes of Manish Pandey (284) and Yusuf Pathan (212) have been patchy on the field. To make it worse, Sunrisers don't have the right opening partner alongside Dhawan.
Form
KKR are gaining momentum, SRH are going down
Sunrisers Hyderabad had a brilliant start to the season. They were the first ones to qualify for the play-offs. However, in the last few games, SRH have seen their form drop drastically and they have lost their last four games. On the other hand, Kolkata Knight Riders are gaining momentum at the right time and have won their last four games.
Lost their mojo
SRH's bowlers haven't been up to the mark
Sunrisers Hyderabad might boast the best bowling attack in 2018 IPL but they haven't been up to the mark in the last few games. In the first few games, SRH bowled beautifully, choked batsmen and defended low totals. But, they seem to have lost their charm. Against Chennai, Hyderabad bowlers couldn't finish the task after the game was completely in SRH's control.
Information
Home advantage is an added bonus for DK and Co
Sunrisers will be wary of the fact that Qualifier 2 will be played at the Eden Gardens, the home ground of the Knight Riders. Kolkata won the last game at this ground and are full of confidence. Home conditions can make things simpler for KKR.