IPL 2018, KXIP vs SRH: 5 player battles to look forward to between Kings XI Punjab and Sunrisers Hyderabad
The Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) and the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have been two of the best teams in the tournament so far and tonight they lock horns at Mohali. SRH have a 100% record, having won three out of three, while KXIP have won two out of three. The game tonight promises to be a tight contest between two teams who are in fine form.
The KXIP top order, fronted by KL Rahul, has done brilliantly so far and with the addition of Chris Gayle, it has perhaps acquired even more firepower. However, they will now come up against a team which relies heavily on the best bowling attack in the tournament; in SRH's three games so far, no team has been able to score 150 against them.
Hence, the head to head clashes of players from either side throw up some interesting possibilities. There are 5 key personnel battles that will decide the eventual outcome of this game and here is a closer look at each of them.
#5 Ravichandran Ashwin v Kane Williamson
The battle of the captains will not only be restricted to their tactical duel through the course of the match but also their head to head battle when Ravichandran Ashwin bowls to his opposite number Kane Williamson.
The SRH captain might not be the biggest power hitter in the business but he has the steadying presence that is often necessary and when shots have to be played, he can do so with aplomb. His half-century in the tense chase against Kolkata Knight Riders in the previous game is a case in point.
Ashwin, on the other hand, remains a crafty spinner and having added the traditional leg-break to his armory, remains a difficult bowler for many batsmen. He is KXIP’s highest wicket-taker with 4 scalps and has recorded an economy rate of just over 7, which is excellent.
Ashwin had the better of Williamson in the 2016 Test series and the two will battle it out tonight to decide the course of the SRH innings during the middle overs. It promises to be an absorbing battle.