Photo by Seshadri Sukumar Credit: AFP via Getty Images
Rajasthan Royals
will play their first match of 2020 IPL season against the formidable Chennai
Super Kings. After defeating the defending champions Mumbai Indians in a
thriller, Chennai would want to continue the momentum in Dubai. On the other
hand, Rajasthan Royals, while boasting a strong and affective bowling attack
with the likes of Archer and Unadkat. The batting and middle order of Rajasthan
is a different story. Captained by Steve Smith, the Royals will not have Jos
Butler and Ben Stokes, two key foreign players who could turn the fortune of Rajasthan
if push comes to shove in IPL matches.
Steve Smith
is in poor form and the absence of Suresh Raina and Harbhajan Singh will be surely
felt even though the latter’s experience and guidance will provide ample
strength to Rajasthan rather than his bowling talents.
The batting
order of Chennai is strong as ever. With players like Faf du Plessis, Shane
Watson and Ambati Rayudu and the always formidable captain MS Dhoni looms in
the middle order. Chennai team is predicted to win in this what could be a
tepid affair considering Rajasthan skeletal batting attack, but if there’s
anything right about IPL is that it’s unpredictable right down to the last ball
bowled.
