The fight for a spot in the IPL 2024 playoffs is getting intense with every match. Chennai Super Kings’ loss to Gujarat Titans opens doors for other teams, including Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Delhi Capitals (DC). These two sides are set to clash in a high-stakes encounter (match number 62) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore.
Both teams are desperate for a win. RCB sits at 10 points, while DC has 12. A loss for either side could significantly damage their playoff hopes. Historically, RCB holds the upper hand in head-to-head battles, winning 18 out of 30 matches against DC.
ALSO READ: Match 62 (RCB vs DC) – Playing XI and Fantasy XI Predictions
Here are three key player battles to watch out for in this crucial match:
#1 Jake Fraser-McGurk vs Yash Dayal
DC’s aggressive opener, Jake Fraser-McGurk, has been a revelation this season. His explosive batting in the powerplay has transformed their batting unit. He’s already smashed three blistering half-centuries in under 20 balls. Bangalore’s bowling attack will have its work cut out, but young pacer Yash Dayal could be the answer. Dayal’s ability to swing the ball, bowl wide yorkers, and mix in slower deliveries could be the key to taming McGurk’s onslaught on the small Chinnaswamy ground.
#2 Virat Kohli vs Axar Patel
Virat Kohli, the current Orange Cap leader, is in red-hot form. After a stellar performance in the last match, he’ll be a major threat for DC. Kohli thrives at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, but his record against DC spinners is patchy. Axar Patel, in particular, has troubled Kohli in the past. In their head-to-head, Axar has dismissed Kohli once and conceded only 78 runs in 71 balls bowled, with a high strike rate of over 109. This battle between experience and strategy will be fascinating to watch.
#3 Rajat Patidar vs Kuldeep Yadav
Rajat Patidar has been on a tear, scoring four half-centuries in his last six innings, all at a blistering strike rate above 200. He’s currently the best Indian batsman in terms of six-hitting frequency in the middle overs, clearing the boundary every 5.6 balls. However, facing the crafty spin of Kuldeep Yadav will be a different challenge. Kuldeep’s variations and experience could pose a significant threat to Patidar’s free-flowing batting. This matchup between an in-form batsman and a quality spinner will be a crucial factor in deciding the outcome of the match.
