IPL 2020: KXIP vs CSK Preview – Beleaguered Chennai face luckless Punjab
KL Rahul’s Kings XI Punjab and MS Dhoni’s Chennai Super Kings will take on each other at the Dubai International Stadium in Match 18 of IPL 2020. Both the teams have a solitary win to their name in the first 4 matches. Kings XI Punjab lost to Mumbai Indians by 48 runs, while Chennai Super Kings lost to Sunrisers Hyderabad by 7 runs in their respective previous outings.
Both teams need to introspect a lot after their defeats. Kings XI Punjab lost a blinder against Rajasthan Royals, but their loss against Mumbai has brought up a lot of questions. Their death bowling was a major concern, and Rahul giving the last over to off-spinner Krishnappa Gowtham was a tactical flaw against the well-set Kieron Pollard and Hardik Pandya. Chennai Super Kings put up a dismal show against Hyderabad with the bat once again, and batsmen’s intent was also questionable in the game once again. The top-order failed to fire, and the bowling ended up conceding 164 runs after reducing the opposition to 69/4 in 11 overs.
Match Info:
Match 18- KXIP vs CSK
Venue- Dubai International Stadium, Dubai
Time – 7:30 PM IST
Head To Head:
Stat Attack:
Kedar Jadhav has recorded four ducks against KXIP in his 7 IPL innings.
MS Dhoni needs 1 six to complete 300 sixes in T20 cricket.
KL Rahul vs Piyush Chawla: 30 runs in 17 balls, 2 dismissals.
Team News:
Chennai Super Kings:
The week-long break did not help their cause that much after their 3rd consecutive defeat. The top-order looked clueless against quality pace upfront. They have failed to utilise the power plays effectively. Someone like a Sam Curran could be drafted in to open the innings with his pinch-hitting abilities. They could consider last year’s top-wicket taker Imran Tahir in this match, with KXIP having 4-5 right-handed batsmen in the top 7. His leg breaks can be tough to pick for the out of form Punjab middle order.
Kings XI Punjab:
Head coach Anil Kumble was accused of having a bias towards Karnataka players. A lot of fans and critics have called for replacing Karun Nair, who did not perform in the 3 innings, with local lad Mandeep Singh. Star-player Glenn Maxwell has also not performed in any of the matches. With Chris Gayle waiting in the wings, Rahul could consider bringing him in for Neesham or Maxwell. This shall strengthen the top-order and give a spin option as well. Afghan offie Mujeeb ur Rahman could also be considered to further strengthen their bowling lineup.
Probable XI:
