In the upcoming IPL 2024 clash between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Gujarat Titans (GT) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, SRH finds themselves in a crucial position, aiming to secure a playoff berth with just two matches left in the league stage. Currently sitting fourth in the points table, SRH understands the significance of clinching victories in their remaining fixtures to solidify their top-four standing.
In their previous encounter, SRH displayed dominance with a remarkable 10-wicket triumph over Gujarat Titans, chasing down a target of 166 runs in a mere 9.4 overs. This commanding victory marked their seventh win of the season, showcasing their form and determination as they strive for playoff contention.
Meanwhile, Gujarat Titans, led by Shubman Gill, saw their playoff aspirations dampened by a rain-affected match against Kolkata Knight Riders. Despite this setback, GT managed to clinch a win against SRH earlier in the season, and they will be eager to conclude their campaign on a positive note with another victory.
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The Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium holds fond memories for SRH, having witnessed their dominant performance against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), where they secured a resounding 10-wicket victory. With a strong home record this season, boasting four wins out of five matches, SRH will look to capitalize on their familiarity with the conditions and replicate their previous successes.
As for the head-to-head record between SRH and GT, GT currently leads with three consecutive victories. However, this match marks the first time these teams will clash in Hyderabad, presenting SRH with an opportunity to reverse the trend and emerge victorious on their home turf.
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s impressive track record against Shubman Gill, having dismissed him three times in 56 deliveries while conceding only 57 runs, makes him a key asset for SRH. Additionally, Gill’s vulnerability to right-arm legspin in this IPL suggests that Vijayakanth Viyaskanth could pose a significant threat to the GT skipper. T Natarajan’s proficiency against left-handers, evident from his seven southpaw dismissals this season at an impressive strike rate of 12 and economy of 8.79, further strengthens SRH’s bowling arsenal.
Probable XI: Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Nitish Reddy, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Abdul Samad, Shahbaz Ahmed, Sanvir Singh, Pat Cummins (c), Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth.
Gujarat Titans (GT)
GT’s lineup saw changes in their previous match against CSK, with Wriddhiman Saha’s absence due to injury leading to the inclusion of Matthew Wade and Kartik Tyagi making his GT debut. Considering Saha’s uncertain form with the bat, GT might opt to retain this combination even if Saha is fit for the upcoming match.
Recent performances highlight the susceptibility of Heinrich Klaasen and Travis Head to spin bowling. With Klaasen being dismissed by spinners three times in his last five matches and Head falling victim to spin on five occasions, SRH could leverage the spin duo of Rashid Khan and Noor Ahmad to capitalize on this weakness in the GT batting lineup.
Probable XI: Shubman Gill (c), Sai Sudharsan, Shahrukh Khan, David Miller, Matthew Wade (wk), Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Umesh Yadav, Mohit Sharma, Kartik Tyagi.
Fantasy XI Suggestion 1:
Heinrich Klaasen (c), Travis Head, Sai Sudharsan, Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill (vc), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Rahul Tewatia, Pat Cummins, Rashid Khan, T Natarajan, Mohit Sharma
Fantasy XI Suggestion 2:
Heinrich Klaasen, Travis Head (c), Sai Sudharsan (vc), Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Rahul Tewatia, Pat Cummins, Rashid Khan, T Natarajan, Mohit Sharma
