IPL 2019: Who will emerge victorious in the game between Chennai and Punjab?
Chennai Super Kings will host the Kings XI Punjab on 6th of April at the Chepauk Stadium in Chennai. Both these teams come into this game on the back of contrasting results as CSK lost their first game in the IPL this year against MI, while KXIP beat DC to win their 3rd match of the tournament.
This will be the top of the table clash as KXIP are currently in the second position in the IPL points table, while CSK are third on NRR. In the 19 matches played between CSK and KXIP, the Chennai based franchise has won 11 of them, while Punjab has won the remaining 8.
KXIP come into this match in top form as their recent victory against DC was one that would give their skipper Ravichandran Ashwin the most joy as they snatched a victory from the jaws of defeat and right now, KXIP looks one of the most settled lineups in this year's IPL.
On the other hand, CSK endured their first loss of the season against MI and it was the first match in which MS Dhoni and his men were completely outplayed. CSK still have a brilliant look to their side and they will be gunning for their 4th win of this year's IPL as they look to defend their coveted IPL title.
Here's a look at how things might pan out in the match between CSK and KXIP:
If CSK bat first
The Chepauk wicket has looked a bit dry in the two matches that have been played there. CSK scored 175 against RR in the last match played there, while RCB got all out for 70 in the first. Also, this match will be played during the day so, expect the wicket to get drier as the game goes on.
So, considering all the above factors, CSK will fancy themselves to get 160+ on that wicket and considering the bowling depth they have, it will be a very competitive total in the first innings.
If KXIP bat first
KXIP's batting lineup is their main strength and they have been consistently good with the bat. They scored 166 in the last game, but Chris Gayle was absent from their XI and he expected to play against CSK.
So, considering the strength of the CSK bowling attack at their home, KXIP will be backing themselves to get at least 150+ runs on the board. Also, they have brilliant spinners in their ranks, so anything above 150 will be difficult to chase on that dry wicket.
Who will win the game?
Considering that CSK have always been great at their home ground and that their squad suits the wicket on offer at the Chepauk, they might just edge this one against KXIP and in the process, go above the Punjab franchise on the IPL Points Table.