This Saturday, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will host the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in their final match of the season. While KKR’s chances of making the playoffs are slim, LSG is well-positioned to secure a spot in the top 2 of IPL 2023.

KRR VS LSG Head-to-Head Record

In their previous encounters this season, LSG emerged victorious in both matches against KKR. However, this will be their first face-off in the current season.

Live-Streaming and Broadcast

Fans can catch the live action of this match through the Jio Cinema App or by tuning in to the Star Sports Network.

Team Previews

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR):

Despite missing some key players, KKR has displayed commendable effort throughout the season. They remained in contention for the playoffs until the final stages, but inconsistent performances from their middle order hindered their progress.

Top Performers:

Skipper Nitesh Rana has been a standout performer, leading the team from the front with three half-centuries and a total of 305 runs. Rinku Singh has been a revelation, showcasing his ability to anchor innings and perform in challenging conditions. Venkatesh Iyer and Jason Roy have made valuable contributions but lacked consistency. Some of their international players, such as Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Andre Russell, and Sunil Narine, have underperformed, indicating the need to explore alternative options in the next season.

Bowling Strengths and Weaknesses:

Varun Chakaravarthy has been the standout bowler for KKR, leading the team with 19 wickets. He has been instrumental in their success so far. Suyash Sharma has also impressed and is poised to play a vital role in upcoming seasons. However, the seamers, including Umesh Yadav, Shardul Thakur, and Andre Russell, have struggled to take wickets, which has been a major factor contributing to KKR’s lackluster performance.

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Lucknow Super Giants

The Lucknow Super Giants have had their fair share of ups and downs this season, but their recent victory against the Mumbai Indians has significantly bolstered their chances of securing a spot in the top 4. While a win in the upcoming match guarantees them a playoff berth, a loss would require them to rely on the outcomes of other teams. In this crucial encounter, the team will heavily rely on Quinton de Kock to provide a solid start, potentially accompanied by either Kyle Mayers or Deepak Hooda, with Mayers likely to feature due to his suitability for the prevailing conditions.

The Opening Conundrum:

Lucknow Super Giants carefully select their players based on specific conditions, and for this match, Mayers is expected to make a return to the team alongside de Kock at the top. While Mayers has been in good form, Hooda has struggled to score runs consistently.

Middle Order Powerhouses:

Lucknow Super Giants boast two exceptional batsmen in their middle order. Marcus Stoinis leads the team in runs, amassing an impressive 368 so far. Nicholas Pooran, an exceptional finisher, adds great value with his ability to score quick runs when needed. Both players are having their best IPL season and have played a pivotal role in the team’s success.

Inconsistent Performances:

The remaining batsmen, namely Krunal Pandya, Prerak Mankad, and Ayush Badoni, have displayed flashes of brilliance but need to elevate their game for this crucial encounter.

Prime Bowler and Seam Options:

Ravi Bishnoi has emerged as the key bowler for the Super Giants, clinching 14 wickets. Lucknow Super Giants possess a strong seam department with options like Yash Thakur, Naveen ul-Haq, and Mohsin Khan, all of whom have made notable contributions with the ball. Mohsin, in particular, played a vital role in the previous match, defending 10 runs in the final over to secure victory for his team. Overall, the Super Giants possess a well-rounded bowling attack.

Tough to Halt the Super Giants:

Lucknow Super Giants possess the necessary firepower and motivation to challenge the Kolkata Knight Riders. Their strong batting lineup, complemented by a reliable bowling unit, makes them a formidable opponent.

Toss Prediction:

Considering the recent trend of successful chases at the Eden Gardens, the team winning the toss is likely to opt for bowling first.

Pitch and Conditions:

The Eden Gardens traditionally offers batsman-friendly surfaces, and this season is no exception. The pitch is dry, flat, and devoid of grass. The average first-inning score this season has been around 195. Seamers will face challenges and need to maintain disciplined line and length. The pitch exhibits some slowness, and the dry surface favors spinners. The weather is expected to be warm and humid with overcast conditions, increasing the chances of rain.

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Betting Tips:

While the Kolkata Knight Riders may not have a shot at the playoffs, they are expected to put up a strong fight. However, the Lucknow Super Giants hold the advantage in this encounter with their formidable batting lineup and a well-performing bowling unit, capable of delivering under pressure situations.

Conclusion:

With only one match remaining, it is practically impossible for KKR to secure a spot in the top 4. However, they will aim to play for pride in their final encounter against LSG. While KKR has shown promising performances from certain individuals, they will need to address their inconsistencies and strengthen their bowling unit for future campaigns. Meanwhile, LSG will be eager to continue their winning streak and solidify their position in the top 2 of IPL 2023.