IPL: KKR vs RCB: A statistical preview

1) In the last 11 games played between the two teams, Royal Challengers Bangalore have won six while Kolkata Knight Riders have won five games. It was exactly a month ago when the two teams clashed in Bangalore where Chris Gayle’s 50-ball 85 helped RCB chase the target of 155 with 15 balls to spare.

2) KKR, who are the defending champions, have had a poor season so far. They have played 13 matches, out of which they have managed to win just five. However, both the teams come into this contest on a high as RCB beat Delhi Daredevils in their last game and KKR defeated Pune Warriors India in their own backyard.

3) Kolkata Knight Riders have won only one of their seven away matches this season.

4) Out of the 12 times when Gautam Gambhir has scored 50 or more, the team has won nine times. Furthermore, the KKR captain averages 48 in the matches they have won and 19 in games that they have lost.

5) Chris Gayle, in his five appearances for RCB against KKR, has scored 313 runs at a strike-rate of 171.03. However, his quiet outings in recent few games can be a concern for RCB.

6) Where teams go from here: After this match, Kolkata Knight Riders travel to Ranchi and prepare to host Pune Warriors India on May 15 while Royal Challengers Bangalore would be heading back home for their game against Kings XI Punjab on May 14.