IPL Match Prediction: Formidable KKR will be a tough nut to crack for sluggish MI at the Eden
THE KOLKATA KNIGHT RIDERS will take on the defending champions Mumbai Indians at the Eden Gardens tomorrow. KKR started off their 2016 IPL campaign with a convincing win over the Delhi Daredevils and will be brimming with confidence. On the other hand, MI once again lost their opening game against debutants Rising Pune Supergiants.
The Knight Riders have shown how formidable they can be playing in their backyard and the balance and depth in their squad will further make it extremely difficult for the Mumbai boys. That said, MI has a fantastic record at the Eden, but as a unit they are known to be slow starters over the years and it remains to be seen if they can turn up the heat on the hosts.
KKR will once again rely on their slower bowlers and spinners to restrict the scoring. The likes of Piyush Chawla and veteran Brad Hogg will lead the spin attack. Given the nature of the wicket, Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan too could be brought back into the squad.
Meanwhile, all-rounder Andre Russell could play a major role with both bat and ball. As far as the batting goes, skipper Gautam Gambhir and Robin Uthappa have already shown signs of great form and if the pair gets going from ball one, the visitors will have some leather chasing to be done.
MI will further need to get their playing combination right and would also be keen on adding some extra teeth in their bowling. They will also be desperately trying to slot in Kiwi all-rounder Corey Anderson into the squad, but at the expense of whom will be interesting to see. Moreover, the defending champions also need to make sure that their top-order gets going tonight.
The conditions at the Eden Gardens are not going to be very different from what we saw on day two of the tournament. The spinners will once again be instrumental, but given the dew factor late in the evening, it will be interesting to see what the captains do at the toss.
KKR are unlikely to tinker with their playing 11 after their thumping win over the Delhi Daredevils. On the other hand, MI might be tempted to make a few changes to get the depth that they so desperately need.
Regardless of the team composition, KKR will start as the firm favourites in tonight’s clash. Confidence, momentum and home support will certainly keep their unit in high spirits. Given MI’s history of being sluggish starters, it is difficult to see them dislodge the men in purple at the Eden tonight.
