DC vs KKR Preview – Delhi hope to change fortunes at home ground
After losing five games in a row, Delhi Capitals will continue their hunt for their maiden victory in the ongoing 16th edition of the Indian Premier League when they host the Kolkata Knight Riders in the 28th match, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium (formerly Feroz Shah Kotla). KKR have had a mixed ride at the IPL 2023 so far, but Delhi have had a nightmare as they still stand in the bottommost position with zero points.
Delhi Capitals are already in trouble, having lost all five games that they have played so far in the tournament. While skipper David Warner has been doing well with the bat, and vice-captain Axar Patel too has contributed well with the bat down the order, the bowling unit looks very weak, and no other batter has managed to put up a decent show, putting the team’s future this season in jeopardy.
Kolkata Knight Riders, on the other hand, suffered a defeat in their recently concluded game against five-time champions Mumbai Indians. Of the five games played, they’ve won two and lost three, but have put forth some thrilling performances so far, and have lost some nail-biting thrillers. The batters will do well given their form, but the bowlers will have to come forward and put up a winning performance.
Pitch and conditions
The pitch at the Arun Jaitley Stadium tends to act slow in the initial stages, but benefits the batters as it wears out. Hence, the chasing side will have an upper hand as the batters will struggle to put up a big total in the first innings.
Venue details: Arun Jaitley Stadium, Mohali
Last T20 match at the venue: DC- 172/10 (19.4 overs) | MI- 173/4 (20 overs)
Here’s the probable playing XI for Delhi Capitals vs Kolkata Knight Riders clash:
Delhi Capitals
Delhi Capitals will have a big task ahead of their clash against KKR. Given KKR’s form, the team have posted some big totals on board, and DC haven’t managed to replicate any of that. The home side would be hungry for a victory.
Kolkata Knight Riders
Kolkata will be the favorites to win the upcoming contest. Their top-order batters are in great form, especially Venkatesh Iyer who is currently the leading run-scorer for his side. Skipper Nitish Rana too has shown tremendous skills with the bat. The bowling department lacks consistency and that’s where KKR would like to focus.
