Sunrisers look to end losing streak

Kolkata Knight Riders have their task cut out against resurgent Chennai Super Kings

It’s been a case of so-nearyet-so-far for Sunrisers Hyderabad so far in the 2021 Indian Premier League with David Warner’s men toeing the line but unable to find that little bit extra to carry them over the line.

Three matches, three defeats and a spot at the bottom of the barrel; that’s how it has panned out for the 2016 Champions.

There might be something about giving chase that is not sitting well with the Sunrisers. Things may have been different if they were to bat first, but predicting the preciseness of that is nigh impossible for the Sunrisers have shown absolutely no application with the bat.

Their bowling has been better in comparison as they managed to restrict two powerful batting units in RCB and MI to sub-150 totals.

Today, the second day of double-headers, SRH will be desperate to put an end to their run of defeats against Punjab Kings.

Stark contrast

KL Rahul-led Punjab are the second most prolific batting outfit in this year’s tournament with 522 runs scored, but they too have their flaws. And if you haven’t already guessed it, in stark contrast to SRH, their inability to put games to bed has to do with their bowling

Neither side is likely to change the line-up drastically, but Rahul might want to cut back on pace — meaning either of or both Jhye Richardson and Riley Meredith could be left out.

In the second game of the day in Mumbai, Kolkata Knight Riders will have their task cut out against Chennai Super Kings, who are gradually coming into their own.