Kolkata aim for redemption after heartbreaking loss
Royal Challengers Bangalore have had a strong start to the season, winning both their games so far, an achievement that they last accomplished in 2014. RCB are a well-rounded unit this time with strength in the batting and bowling department and are helped by the form of Glenn Maxwell. Against a a line-up like KKR, RCB have odds of 1.68 to win again in Chennai.
Kolkata had a win first up but then went through a heartbreaking loss against Mumbai where they were ahead in the game and then lost a series of wickets to concede the game. They have their task cut out against a RCB side that is familiar and adapted to the surface. They have odds of 2.05 to beat RCB.
Overall and recent records may not matter
Royal Challengers Bangalore have won 12 of the 27 matches against KKR while the Eoin Morgan-led side has 15. But that’s history and in recent times the record reads 3-3 since 2018. This season is more paramount in terms of recency and Bangalore have their heads ahead with a great start to the year.
RECOMMENDED BET: RCB have the spinner to stifle KKR at Chepauk have odds of 1.68 to beat them.
This season, both sides could have had similar start to the season but for KKR’s stumble at the last moment to Mumbai. Make no mistake, it’s still no easy task for RCB to win this, but they have the line-up to do so.
Keep an eye on…
Glenn Maxwell: The Australian has loved the extra responsibility and has delivered in both games with crucial knocks. On a Chennai wicket with turn, something RCB don’t usually like, Maxwell has proved to be the difference so far.
KKR’s tactics: KKR are superior with their tactical planning and match-ups and will have a plan ready against the RCB side. They have the bowling resources to keep RCB batsmen quiet, but will still need to stop freaks like AB de Villiers and Glenn Maxwell.
TIP: Virat Kohli is due a big knock and has odds of 8.00 to win the Player of the Match award.
