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IPL 2017, Rising Pune Supergiant vs Gujarat Lions: 5 winning factors

Gujarat need a win to boost their playoff hopes

The 39th match of this IPL 2017 will see Rising Pune Supergiant take on Gujarat Lions at Pune. These are interesting times, and crucial too, as both the teams have gained some momentum after initial hiccups. Neither of teams have stamped their authority in the tournament so far, but they will be heading into a crucial encounter as they look to strengthen their chances of making it to the playoffs.

Gujarat Lions would be mighty proud of their efforts in the last game as they took the game to a super over despite losing their star bowler Andrew Tye. They have managed to win just three games out of nine and are in a spot of bother, but have an opportunity here against RPS, a team against whom they have a hundred percent win record.

RPS, on the other hand, are brimming with confidence after drubbing RCB this past Saturday. After their slow start, it seemed like the Pune-based franchise would be spending a lot of time at the bottom of the points table, but the Steve Smith led team have turned things around quite well. Their batting has come good and bowlers have stepped up when needed. And a win today will further boost their chance of a top four finish.

So, what should both the teams do to win this game? And, what should they not do? Who are the key players and what are the strategies? Let’s have a look.

#1 With the bat

Gujarat Lions, much like RCB, are a batting-heavy side. However, unlike RCB, they have a much reliable middle-order. GL will take heart from young Ishan Kishan’s gritty innings against a quality Mumbai Indians bowling attack when all other star batsmen fell early.

However, the likes of Brendon McCullum, Aaron Finch and Suresh Raina should score more than they did in the last game and score big as RPS are a good batting side themselves.

For RPS though, things are going pretty well with the bat. Young Rahul Tripathi has been very impressive, with his consistency and his strike rate. Once again they will look for a good opening stand from the Rahane-Tripathi combo and will back their reliable middle-order to carry the momentum.

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