Leaders KKR look to consolidate position

Having started their campaign on a high against Gujarat Lions, KKR lost to Mumbai Indians before making a strong comeback with back-to-back wins at home against Kings XI and Sunrisers Hyderabad. Delhi, on the other hand, had a disappointing start to IPL-10 with a loss against Royal Challengers Bangalore, but bounced back with two consecutive wins -- both away and home -- and they would look to maintain the winning momentum on Monday. 

The massive wins against Rising Pune Supergiant and Kings XI Punjab must have sent strong signals to KKR camp. Playing at home would also add to Delhi’s advantage but they will have their task cut out against KKR, this IPL’s most consistent outfit so far.

Leading from the front, orange cap holder (for scoring most number of runs) and skipper Gautam Gambhir has shown his prowess and that has been one of the reasons for KKR’s success. The left-handed batsman will be their key player yet again on Monday. While injured opener Chris Lynn would be missed, the likes of Robin Uthappa, Manish Pandey and Yusuf Pathan, if manage to fire, can more than make up for the loss. 

Pandey has been among runs in last three matches, while Uthappa’s gritty 68 off 39 deliveries last night helped KKR post 17-run win over defending champions Sunrisers Hyderabad.

KKR may also persist with Narine as an opener and hope he can contribute at the top of the order, like in the match against Punjab. 

Delhi, however, have in their ranks Sanju Samson, the only centurion of IPL-10 so far, Sam Billings, Rishabh Pant, Corey Anderson and Chris Morris -- all of whom have managed to deliver so far. That Delhi are dangerous opponents was evident from last night’s emphatic win over Kings XI Punjab. 

Kolkata Knight Riders vs Delhi Daredevils 4 PM onwards | Sony Six, ESPN

Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Kings XI Punjab 8 PM onwards | Sony Six, ESPN