Indian Premier League

IPL 2022 Qualifier 2: Who will book final date with Gujarat?

An intriguing matchup waits for a place in the final of IPL 2022 between Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bangalore.

Rajasthan Royals so close yet so far having put a substantial score on the board in testing batting conditions led by another sublime innings by Jos Butler. Top order runs crucial so a batting unit that will take lots of confidence into this winner takes all contest.

It appeared as though batting conditions eased for the second half of the game though the Royals bowlers as a unit not at their best. I’m sure with the class and experience these bowlers possess they will dig deep and be self-analytical rather than blame conditions changing.

The very best will adapt if conditions change, let’s face it over the course of a 20 over match conditions will rarely change that dramatically. I expect a much-improved bowling performance in this game and if the surface is batter friendly which the small sample size of games suggests at this magnificent Narendra Modi stadium, then the focus on the bowling units becomes more intense.

Ashwin and Chahal have been excellent as individuals but more importantly have built pressure together as a partnership which has rewarded them both in terms of wicket taking throughout the tournament. Trent Boult’s early spell to RCB’s top order may be a game deciding moment.

If there is any swing in place it won’t be for long and 2-3 overs with the new ball will be priceless to pick up early wickets to allow the spinners to get to work in the middle overs.

Remembering one of the group games where these sides played each other Boult caused Kohli real problems initially in the early overs. Kohli has since found a bit of form so that contest will be so watchable. The Royals will inevitably be disappointed that they lost to the Titans but after an excellent campaign so far will have to park that bowling performance and move on which I think they will.

RCB have found a way to win regularly enough without often bringing their A+ game. Patidar’s unbelievable innings getting them over the line. A great innings and a great story.

At 28 years of age, he may well have felt his moment in the limelight had gone but through injury and persistence he has been rewarded. He wasn’t picked in the auction but added later through an injury. He played the innings of a lifetime and looked nothing short of an international player in the side.

It was an innings that covered the low scores of the big match players around him. For all his heroics the big names with all the experience will have to perform, if RCB have a chance of winning this game.

If as is possible this may be a batter paradise, then runs in the top order are absolutely crucial. In Dinesh Karthik they have the finisher who has been outstanding and consistent in what is a tough role but a substantial score ideally on the board before he gets to work.

RCB will hope their bowling unit doesn’t get exposed if it’s a very flat surface. Harshal, Hazelwood and Hasaranga have been excellent with Siraj disappointing. Shahbaz and Maxwell have provided excellent support. This is an area where I would expect the Royals to try and exploit.

Target the 5th and 6th bowler of RCB. As that could be a match changing exchange. The contest is a mouth-watering one and bringing together 3 outstanding spinners – Ashwin, Chahal and Hasaranga who showed great nerve in the win against LSG by bowling a bit slower and being brave under pressure.

More of that wizardry may be required in this game and if there is not much spin then variation and use of it will be essential. The battle of the spinners is a great subplot to what should be fascinating contest, for me Royals start as slight favourites.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

Pro Kabaddi League 2024: Jaipur Pink Panthers vs Dabang Delhi K.C. – Match Preview

The inaugural champions Jaipur Pink Panthers will take the mat against Dabang Delhi K.C. in… Read More

November 21, 2024

Robert Lewandowski recalls playing under ‘difficult’ Pep Guardiola; explains how ex-Barcelona coach changed

Barcelona’s striker Robert Lewandowski recalled how Pep Guardiola was a difficult coach to play under… Read More

November 21, 2024

Ayush Chikkara aspires to be a ‘regular’ in Mumbai City FC’s team, says doesn’t want to take any external pressure

Mumbai City FC forward Ayush Chikkara wants to find a regular place in Petr Kratky’s… Read More

November 21, 2024

Carlos Alcaraz lauds Rafael Nadal’s legacy after retirement

World No.2 Carlos Alcaraz hailed Rafael Nadal’s legacy after the veteran Spaniard retired from the… Read More

November 21, 2024

Jamshedpur FC’s defender Ashutosh Mehta credits ‘100% professional’ Khalid Jamil for having a big impact in his life

Jamshedpur FC full-back Ashutosh Mehta has given credit to head coach Khalid Jamil for playing… Read More

November 21, 2024

Lakers star LeBron James says he’s taking a break from social media

Los Angeles Lakers’s superstar LeBron James has revealed he is taking a break from social… Read More

November 21, 2024