In the highly anticipated Qualifier 1 clash of the 2024 Indian Premier League season at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the cricketing spectacle is set to unfold as Kolkata Knight Riders lock horns with Sunrisers Hyderabad, each vying for a direct ticket to the finals.
Having dominated the league stage with an impressive tally of 20 points from 14 enthralling encounters, the Kolkata Knight Riders enter the playoffs as the table-toppers. Their journey has been nothing short of remarkable, clinching victory in nine games while facing setbacks on three occasions. However, their last outing was marred by the whims of nature, as rain truncated the game following the toss.
Meanwhile, the Sunrisers Hyderabad enter the playoffs with their spirits soaring high, courtesy of a significant triumph over the Punjab Kings in their final league fixture. With 17 points to their credit, they secured the second spot on the points table courtesy of a better net run rate than Rajasthan Royals.
What has happened so far?
In their most recent encounters, the Kolkata Knight Riders have faced an unexpected hiatus due to weather disruptions, keeping them off the field since May 11. Despite these interruptions, their performance in the last five games reflects a commendable track record, boasting three victories and two washouts.
Their last played match showcased their prowess as they clinched a commanding 18-run triumph in a rain-affected showdown against the Mumbai Indians. Notable contributions from Varun Chakravarthy and Venkatesh Iyer played pivotal roles in scripting this memorable win.
Contrastingly, the Sunrisers Hyderabad have had a mixed bag of results in their recent outings, securing three wins, enduring one draw, and encountering a “No Result.” In their previous clash against the Punjab Kings, they emerged victorious by four wickets after a resilient display.
Opting to bowl first, the Sunrisers’ bowlers faced a daunting task, conceding 214 runs in 20 overs, with T Natarajan shining through with a brace. However, their batting lineup rose to the occasion, spearheaded by Abhishek Sharma and Rahul Tripathi’s crucial partnership after an early setback with the dismissal of Head. As the innings progressed, Nitish Reddy and Heinrich Klassen ensured a smooth sail towards victory for SRH.
Head to Head Record
Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad have faced each other 27 times since its inception in the tournament. KKR continues to dominate the face-off as they have registered 17 wins whereas SRH have just nine victories to their name.
In the recent clash between the two sides, SRH came agonizingly close to registering their win against KKR but fell short by three runs at Eden Gardens.
Key Players
Sunil Narine has played a pivotal role in steering his team to the playoffs of IPL 2024
Sunil Narine (Kolkata Knight Riders): In a remarkable resurgence, Sunil Narine has transformed from a slump to a powerhouse performer over the last three seasons. The West Indian all-rounder has not only excelled with the bat, scoring crucial runs during the powerplay but has also been a formidable force with the ball, stifling opposition batters in the middle overs.
In the ongoing campaign, Narine has been in scintillating form, amassing 461 runs at an impressive average of 38.42. Moreover, his bowling prowess has been equally impressive, claiming 15 crucial wickets at an economy of 6.64. Undoubtedly, he remains the linchpin of KKR’s aspirations.
Abhishek Sharma (Sunrisers Hyderabad): Since Yuvraj Singh’s retirement, Abhishek Sharma has emerged as a dazzling left-handed batsman, reminiscent of the flamboyance and bat flow of the cricketing legend.
With 467 runs and three half-centuries at a striking 209.42, he dominates the powerplay overs, leaving bowlers spellbound. Sharma’s penchant for dispatching the ball into the stands also makes him the leading six-hitter in the ongoing tournament with 40 sixes.
Team News from Both Camps
Kolkata Knight Riders are enjoying a successful run in the tournament, maintaining a settled playing XI with minimal changes. Nitish Rana has made a comeback after recovering from his injury, adding depth to the team.
However, the absence of Phil Salt raises questions, as Gurbaz is untested in the league’s high-pressure environment. Despite this uncertainty, the KKR side appears to be a well-oiled machine, poised for further success.
Sunrisers Hyderabad maintains one of the best and most explosive batting lineups in the tournament while their bowling has shown improvements following their high-scoring match against Royal Challengers Bangalore, where they conceded 262 runs.
Predicted XIs
Kolkata Knight Riders: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Venkatesh Iyer, Shreyas Iyer ©, Rinku Singh, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Ramandeep Singh, Mitchell Starc, Anukul Roy, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakravarthy
Sunrisers Hyderabad: Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Nitish Reddy, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Abdul Samad, Shahbaz Ahmed, Pat Cummins ©, Jaydev Unadkat, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Viyaskanth Vijayakanth, T Natarajan
Prediction
Kolkata Knight Riders have finished the league stage at the top of the table for the first time in their history and they aim to capitalize on their current form. However, Sunrisers Hyderabad also possesses momentum from their recent games, unlike KKR, who have not played since 11th May.