IPL 2021, SRH vs DC: 5 key battles to watch out for

As the 2021 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) rages on, the matches keep coming thick and fast. Sunday will see two matches, the second of which will be between two sides who have had very different starts to the campaign, but are both coming off after securing impressive victories. The SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Delhi Capitals (DC) will gear up for what promises to be a feisty clash. The Capitals, under the leadership of young captain Rishabh Pant, have won three of their first four matches, including their most recent success against defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI), a match which they won by six wickets. On the other hand, David Warner’s SRH have had a less than positive start to the campaign so far, as they have managed to win only once in their last four matches. However, that one win came against the Punjab Kings (PBKS) and the SunRisers recorded a dominating performance. 

Here are the five key player battles to look out for: 

BHUVNESHAR KUMAR VS SHIKHAR DHAWAN

Both are regular starters in the Indian national side, both have tons of experience backing them, and both seem to be in a decent run of form in this year’s IPL. Dhawan and Bhuvi’s individual duel promises to be a thrilling encounter, especially on the slow Chepauk track. 

JONNY BAIRSTOW VS KAGISO RABADA

Both overseas players have been in terrific form this season. Bairstow scored a magnificent half-century in SRH’s previous game while Rabada showcased yet another effective bowling display. They two will lock horns on Sunday and it can be an enthralling contest. 

DAVID WARNER VS AMIT MISHRA

Two veterans of the game who seemed in good touch in their respective previous encounters, Warner and Mishra will both look to perform to the best of their abilities. The spinner’s experience coupled with the Chepauk track against Warner’s raw talent and experience are ingredients for an exciting battle. 

KANE WILLIAMSON VS AVESH KHAN

Avesh has been in top form this season, picking up wickets in every single game so far, while Williamson got his first start of the campaign in SRH’s previous game. It will be interesting to see how the youngster bowls against one of the best batters in world cricket at the moment.

RASHID KHAN VS RISHABH PANT

The Chepauk track is heaven for a spinner of Rashid’s quality. He could use all his tricks to the fullest and get the better of anybody. However, the DC skipper is one of the most explosive batsmen in the country today, and it would be interesting to see how the two square off.