IPL 2017 Player Battles: Top 4 Player Encounters in KKR v Kings XI Punjab Match

Kolkata Knight Riders captain Gautam Gambhir in action during IPL T-20 match between KKR and DD at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on April 3, 2013. (Photo: IANS)
After the loss of Lynn, Gambhir’s form at the top is crucial for KKR

#2 Manish Pandey (KKR) v Axar Patel (KXIP)

Image result for Manish Pandey kkr sportskeeda
In Lynn’s absence, Manish Pandey becomes a very important batsman for KKR and needs to play a big role

Pandey, who scored an unbeaten 81 for KKR in a losing cause, would be key to KKR’s chances. The middle order batsman would definitely have to contend with the left-arm spin of Axar Patel who has had two good matches in a row, 1/12 in 4 overs against RCB and 1/27 against Rising Pune Supergiant.

Patel has done well against KKR in IPL 2016 as well - 0/24 in 4 overs and 2/19 in 3 overs in the two league games, even though KKR won both times.

Extra Cover: Chris Lynn injury update: Batsman likely to miss rest of IPL 2017, says KKR coach Jacques Kallis

Pandey on the other hand, would absolutely love to make immense of the opportunity. He scored only 12 in one outing and didn’t bat in the other when the two teams met last year. Axar Patel doesn’t turn the ball much but he will be a handful to deal with at the Eden Gardens, which is usually a little slower.

Bowling second could be tougher given the dew. Pandey, IPL’s first Indian centurion, might turn the tide in his favour this time, after his previous exploits and the confidence he has gained.

Check RCB Squad 2024 Details. Follow Sportskeeda for IPL 2024 Live Score, Schedule, Points Table

Page 1
PREV 2 / 4 NEXT

Quick Links

Edited by Staff Editor