IPL 2021: KKR vs PBKS Preview – Playoff contenders lock horns in an all-important battle

Kolkata Knight Riders have been on fire since the IPL 2021 has resumed in the UAE. The team under Eoin Morgan started the UAE leg with five losses and two wins. They have won three and lost one in this leg. Punjab Kings, on the other hand, are faced with a difficult situation needing to win each and every team they play from here.

They have won four out of their 11 games and a loss could cost them their potential place in the playoffs. The last time these two teams met each other was in Ahmedabad, a match which was won by Kolkata quite easily. KKR would be on their toes and have enjoyed success against Punjab in the past as well. Kolkata is leading the head-to-head count 19-9 against Punjab for now.

Head to head:

Match Info:

IPL 2021 Match 45 – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Punjab Kings

Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai

Time: 7:30 PM IST

Team News:

Kolkata Knight Riders: Tim Southee played in the previous match alongside Lockie Ferguson. Southee played because of an injury sustained by Andre Russell which made him miss the previous match. Interestingly enough, Ferguson himself endured a niggle, causing him to bowl only two overs in that game. If Russell and Ferguson both are fit, they will walk into the team. If either of them misses out, Southee will retain his spot. But if both miss out, we might see Ben Cutting getting a game. Apart from this, Sunil Narine and Eoin Morgan will play with the Indian contingent not getting tinkered really. Sandeep Warrier, despite bowling two overs, might be in the XI or might get replaced by Shivam Mavi.

Punjab Kings: The KL Rahul led team has a few issues along with their batting. Chris Gayle has left the bio-bubble and won’t be playing any part in the IPL now. This allows them an opportunity to bring in Fabian Allen and Shahrukh Khan. Mayank Agarwal had missed the last game due to a stiff neck. If he is fit, which is expected at this point, he will replace Mandeep Singh. Now, whether Singh gets a place in the team lower down the order or not, it is to be seen. The bowling has been good and will not see any changes.

Probable XI