IPL match preview: Rajasthan Royals v Delhi Capitals

The teams will meet in Guwahati, which is relatively new as a host venue. Last time out, it served up almost 400 runs in the match between the Punjab Kings and Rajasthan. Punjab batted first and won the match. Rajasthan and Delhi can interpret plenty from that this time.

A few pundits have questioned Shimron Hetmyer's place in the batting order. They want him higher. He's more than just a finisher. It's possible that will happen against Delhi, who'd do well to take pace off the ball when he's at the crease.

While Delhi have lost two in two this IPL so far, the Royals got off the mark against Hyderabad and then lost a tight affair to Punjab. The Royals were unchanged for that fixture and it'll be intriguing to see how they tweak their XI, if at all, here.

Delhi need David Warner and Prithvi Shaw firing at the top of the order - and soon. Ricky Ponting has publicly expected a lot from Shaw in particular. Warner, now the captain, can't let the extra responsibility affect his primary role with the bat.

Delhi and Rajasthan have taken it in turns to beat each other in their last five outings. Rajasthan have the balance of the wins, though, with three in five.

Yuzvendra Chahal is one of the best leg-spinners on display during the 2023 IPL. He was prolific last season and could take full advantage of conditions in Guwahati. He'll have fellow wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav of the Capitals to compete against.

Rajasthan also have an outstanding fast bowler in Trent Boult, whose knack for taking wickets in the opening powerplay - and even his opening over - is proving remarkable. Look forward to a big battle between Boult and Warner.

If Delhi don't win here, they'll have three losses in as many attempts this IPL season. But they're looking solid for a turnaround against a Royals outfit still somewhat smarting from defeat to the Punjab Kings.