IPL 2018: RCB vs KKR, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) probable playing XI against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)

As Virat Kohli walks out with Dinesh Karthik for the toss in front of a packed Chinnaswamy, the three losses RCB have suffered at the hands of KKR in the teams' last three encounters would definitely be at the back of his mind. Then here's the question of climbing up the table and give a shot at making the playoffs as well.

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The middle order and death bowling have been two of RCB's nemesis since the inception of Indian Premier League and 10 years down the line, not much has changed. As the management sits down to zero down on an XI, the need to strengthen their death bowling would be at the top of their agendas.

To accommodate a full-time bowler, Kohli and co. might decide to go in with Manan Vohra, who would replace all-rounder Pawan Negi. The Punjab batsman has only had one match to prove himself this season where he was dismissed for 2. However, given the fact that RCB need a full-time bowler, Vohra might be given a go for Negi.

Quinton de Kock, who seems to be getting into his groove recently, will continue open the batting and with Vohra's inclusion, Virat Kohli will have to walk in at number three. The skipper, who failed to get going against CSK and was dismissed for just 18 runs, would love to get back to his brilliant best tonight against KKR.

AB de Villiers, RCB's best batsman thus far in the tournament, will continue at number four and he'll have to take up the responsibility of batting throughout the innings if De Kock and Kohli fail. Mandeep Singh and Colin de Grandhomme, along with Washington Sundar, will have to carry the burden of finishing the innings with a flourish.

As far as the bowling is concerned, Tim Southee is expected to be drafted in the XI for compatriot Corey Anderson, who was annihilated by MS Dhoni's blade the other night. Mohammed Siraj though went for runs against CSK, is expected to retain his place in the team.

Umesh Yadav, RCB's best bowler so far in the tournament and Yuzvendra Chahal will complete the XI. The leggie hasn't had the best of tournaments and this would be his best opportunity to finally get going and win his team matches.

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