In Jofra Archer's absence, Chris Morris, who returns to the Rajasthan Royals, will have a key role to play.
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Rajasthan Royals (RR) are set to take on Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the opening fixtures of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 league campaigns, of the two teams. While the Rajasthan-based franchise will be led by Sanju Samson, Punjab Kings will be spearheaded by KL Rahul. The squads of both these teams comprise of proven match-winners like Chris Morris, Chris Gayle, Mayank Agarwal, Ben Stokes making the contest one to watch out for.
Here’s a look at five key player battles to watch out for ahead of this match which will be played at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai:
KL Rahul finished as the leading run-getter in the 2020 edition of the IPL. He smashed runs with great consistency, hitting the ball to all corners of the ground. Rahul will be eager to maintain the same impact in the ongoing edition. However, he will face a stern challenge from Chris Morris, who can be quite difficult to score runs off. This sets the stage for an exciting face-off.
The newly elected Captain of the RR team, Sanju Samson will be looking to make his mark in this edition of the IPL. Sanju’s clean hitting was pleasing to the eye, and his ability to clear the field with ease astonishing to watch.
Jhye Richardson, one of the most expensive players bought at the recent auction will be dealing with massive pressure. Due to the massive price tag and responsibility, it’ll be interesting to see him perform in his debut IPL season. What cannot be denied however is his talent and ability to emerge as a match-winner.
A lot of eyes will be on England’s wicket-keeper batsman Jos Buttler in the contest on Monday. Buttler is one of the most dangerous T20 hitters and has been maintaining his form in the recent games as well. He’s been one of the star performers for RR in the last couple of years.
The hard-hitting Englishman will face stiff opposition from Punjab Kings’ Mohammed Shami, who will not be easy to play. Shami was Punjab’s best pacer by some distance in IPL 2020. He has often delivered at the top of the innings and has taken key wickets for Punjab Kings. Shami has also improved his death overs record in recent matches, making him even more lethal.
What a massive difference Chris Gayle had made to the Punjab outfit in IPL 2020 since making it into the playing eleven! Even at 41, he is living up to the tag of Universe Boss and has registered some stupendous batting efforts.
The left-hander is likely to face the leggie Shreyas Gopal.
Shreyas Gopal has been quite an important figure in the RR bowling line-up. His performances in the last edition were not up to the mark but he will be certainly looking to change it this year. This could make his face-off against Gayle one to watch out for.
Ben Stokes is in the form of his life. His outstanding performances against Team India in the recently concluded series were quite impressive. It will be interesting to see Stokes’ batting at the top of the order against a wily spinner like Ravi Bishnoi, who was sensational in IPL 2020.
