Delhi Capitals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad, Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam, 3:30 PM
What to Expect: A Run-Fest Awaits in Vizag
Vizag’s cricket ground witnessed a staggering 29 sixes in the last IPL clash, and the stage is set for another high-voltage, boundary-laden spectacle. With Sunrisers Hyderabad’s explosive batting arsenal, even their 190-run total against Lucknow Super Giants felt modest. If the pitch retains its featherbed nature, SRH’s batters—Head, Abhishek, and Klaasen—are primed to unleash carnage.
However, Delhi Capitals’ bowling brigade, spearheaded by the wily Kuldeep Yadav, the versatile Axar Patel, and the promising Vipraj Nigam, will pose a stern challenge. Add Mitchell Starc’s fiery pace and Mukesh Kumar’s precision to the mix, and DC’s attack looks formidable. LSG’s blueprint against SRH’s batting juggernaut offers valuable lessons, but execution will be key.
KL Rahul’s much-anticipated DC debut adds a new dimension to their batting. Slotted at No. 3 or in the middle order, Rahul’s experience could be the glue DC needs. Yet, the team’s batting order remains a puzzle, with roles still undefined. On the flip side, SRH’s bowlers, despite a rare off day, have the depth and variety to bounce back with a vengeance.
Key Battles to Watch
Kuldeep Yadav has had the wood over Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan, dismissing them twice each. Starc, too, boasts a stellar record against Travis Head, having sent him packing five times. The duel between Heinrich Klaasen and DC’s spin twins—Kuldeep and Axar—promises to be a tactical masterclass. Meanwhile, Harshal Patel’s battle against the explosive Ashutosh Sharma could be a game-changer.
DC’s Likely Playing XI
KL Rahul’s inclusion means Sameer Rizvi will likely make way. With no other wicketkeeping options, Abishek Porel is expected to retain his spot. The lineup: Jake Fraser-McGurk, Faf du Plessis, Abhishek Porel (wk), KL Rahul, Axar Patel (c), Tristan Stubbs, Vipraj Nigam, Mitchell Starc, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohit Sharma, Mukesh Kumar. Impact sub: Ashutosh Sharma.
SRH’s Likely Playing XI
Despite their recent loss, SRH is likely to field an unchanged XI, with no injury concerns reported. The lineup: Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Aniket Varma, Abhinav Manohar, Pat Cummins (c), Harshal Patel, Mohammed Shami, Simarjeet Singh. Impact sub: Adam Zampa.
Pitch and Weather Report
With an afternoon start, dew won’t play spoilsport. The Vizag pitch has been a batsman’s paradise in the last three IPL matches, and this game is expected to follow suit. However, the surface might slow down in the second innings. Clear skies and no rain forecast ensure uninterrupted cricketing action.
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