IPL 2018: X factor for both CSK and RCB in today’s match

There is a very exciting encounter lined up for the IPL fans this afternoon. MS Dhoni led CSK will take on the Virat Kohli led RCB on Chennai’s adopted home ground at Pune. The encounter promises to be exciting and one that can go down to the wire.

As opposed to the longer formats where 3-4 players have to dish out excellent performances to get their team over the line, T20 is a format where the brilliance of a single player can do the trick. In today’s game, all CSK and RCB need is a spark. A brilliant performance from one o f their players would be enough to boost the morale of the entire team.

CSK- Ambati Rayudu

Ambati Rayudu is currently the leading run scorer in this season the IPL. In 9 matches, Rayudu has piled up 391 runs and is looking good to breach the magic figure of 500 this year. The right hander has shown enormous consistency and is the deserved holder of the Orange cap.

This, in many ways, has been a breakout season for Rayudu as he has staked his claim for a spot in the Indian ODI side. The 32-year-old came out to bat at No. 4 in the last match against KKR but if CSK have to make full use of his potential, they have to slot him at the top of the order.

If Rayudu gets going, CSK would then have the momentum and it would be very difficult for RCB to stop them.

RCB- Tim Southee

Tim Southee is the answer to RCB’s bowling troubles. Bangalore have leaked a lot of runs at the fag end of the innings. Their chief weapons at that time in Umesh Yadav and Mohammad Siraj have gone for plenty.

RCB have included Southee in their playing XI for the last two matches and the Kiwi has delivered. In the first match though he was not able to pick up a wicket, Southee bowled economically. In his last match he got his rhythm back and ended with figures of 2-25.

If RCB with the efforts of Southee can stem the flow of runs in the death overs, they can have wood on CSK and also keep their chances alive in IPL 2018.

About the author

Saksham Mishra

I, a failed cricketer say: write picturesque, write insightful; otherwise don’t write. My writings are a source of self pleasure. Enjoy a fiercely fought test session much more than a slam bang T20. I write anything, as per whim- news piece, feature, opinion, editorial, preview, analysis etc. Hope to write a book one day!

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