A Clash of the Titans at the Pink City
Two heavyweights of the competition, Rajasthan and Lucknow, meet at Jaipur. Rajasthan, formidable in all areas, have won thrice on the trot. Their last win over Gujarat was special, overcoming early wickets to prevail. Lucknow lost last time out but have three wins from five, second on points. Defeated at home by Punjab, Lucknow couldn’t post enough, falling 2 wickets short chasing 159.
It will be a sight as the top two clash. Rajasthan’s balance and Lucknow’s depth promise a thriller. Home advantage may tilt the scale but Lucknow’s varied attack means they won’t go down without a fight.
Rajasthan’s probable XI: Jaiswal, Buttler, Jurel, Samson, Hetmyer, Parag, Ashwin, Holder, Boult, Chahal, Sharma
Lucknow’s probable XI: de Kock, Rahul, Hooda, K Pandya, Pooran, Stoinis/Mayers, Badoni, Bishnoi, Wood, Khan, Charak
Buttler, the highest scorer, and Chahal, the leading wicket-taker, have starred for Rajasthan. Though subdued so far, skipper Rahul’s last half-century showed his class. Wood is enjoying purple form, second in wickets.
My fantasy team: Buttler (c), Pooran, Samson, Rahul, Jaiswal, Hetmyer, K Pandya, Chahal, Bishnoi, Boult, Wood (vc)
The odds slightly favor Rajasthan given current form and home advantage but don’t rule out Lucknow’s four-pronged pace attack or a KL Rahul special. A close contest seems on the cricket online betting tips and ipl betting tips cards!
My prediction: Rajasthan to continue surge but only just, owing to spin twins and cameo knocks. Lucknow’s batting depth and Wood’s pace may pose problems. Whichever way, this should live up to its billing as a cracker, keeping cricket bookies on tenterhooks!
