Having won its previous match after two losses upfront, Kolkata Knight Riders will look to down Rajasthan Royals in their fourth round match of the IPL-V at the Eden Gardens here on Friday.
Coming off a creditable win against a strong Royal Challengers Bangalore, Gautam Gambhir-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will also seek to avenge the defeat it had suffered at Jaipur a few days back.
Captained by Rahul Dravid, Rajasthan Royals (RR) began the season on a wonderful note winning the first two matches before suffering a defeat at the hands of a rampaging Mumbai Indians team on Wednesday. The good news for KKR is its batting mainstay Gambhir has struck form with a timely knock that helped his team set a good target for RCB. With Jacques Kallis also contributing, KKR is expected to continue with the same combination.
Main worry
KKR's main worry is the lack of from of Yusuf Pathan. Considered to be a dangerous batsman, Pathan has not been firing since he moved out of RR to KKR last season. If his woeful form continues, he might even lose his place in the playing XI. It is important for him to grab his opportunity.
Opener Ajinkya Rahane is in good nick and he should continue to prosper at the top of the order. Dravid's early aggression, in keeping with the nature of the game, has paid dividends. KKR will want to win this game to even out the score. RR has the team and ability to surprise the host. All in all, a cracker of a contest is on the cards, weather permitting.
Match starts at 8 p.m.
