Dad’s Army’s Paradise Lost

Super Kings, with just six points, has struggled in all departments, leading to heavy criticism towards skipper MS Dhoni for not showing enough faith in the youngsters. However, CSK did bring in the young duo of Ruturaj Gaikwad and Narayan Jagadeesan against Mumbai Indians (MI). But, both batsmen perished without opening their account.

The Super Kings batters were rocked by Trent Boult and Jasprit Bumrah’s devastating pace-bowling spell, slipping to 21 for five inside the powerplay overs. Its bowlers also failed to make an impact as CSK suffered its first 10-wicket defeat in IPL history.

Sam Curran’s half-century was the only saving grace for Super Kings, which is expected to give more opportunities to the youngsters. “We have to make the most of the remaining three games and it is a good preparation for the next year. We need to identify the batsmen, and bowlers that will deliver at the death. Hopefully, the players will soak up the pressure,” Dhoni said after the loss to MI.

CSK runs into a RCB squad which has grown in confidence as the tournament has progressed. Virat Kohli and his men are placed third on the table with 14 points. Bangalore will aim to earn the two points on offer while also trying to improve its net run-rate.

RCB comes into the match on the back of victories against Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). The pace quartet of Chris Morris, Mohammed Siraj, Isuru Udana and Navdeep Saini has done well, while spinners Washington Sundar and Yuzvendra Chahal have also proved effective.

RCB’s strong batting line-up, led by captain Kohli, has lived up to the billing. In another duel on Sunday, Mumbai will lock horns with Rajasthan in Abu Dhabi.