IPL match preview: Rajasthan Royals v Lucknow Super Giants
The Rajasthan Royals and Lucknow Super Giants clash at the top of the table in the 2023 Indian Premier League.
Jos Buttler.Rajasthan and Lucknow currently occupy first and second position, respectively in the 10-team standings. They're both among the favourites to win the title, but a win here could set the genuine contender apart from the pretender.
This is the first time Jaipur will host a match in the 2023 IPL. It'll be interesting to see if it's as high-scoring as some of the other tournament venues. It's probable the captain who wins the toss will opt to bowl first and chase later.
The Royals will head into this match on the back of a big win over the Gujarat Titans, who are the reigning champions. Rajasthan only used five bowlers in that match and it's possible that tactic will follow here as well.
The Super Giants have a recent defeat to the Punjab Kings to bounce back from. Lucknow KL Rahul scored 74 then, but there was precious little support around him. A much bigger effort from the batsmen is required this time.
The Super Giants have never beaten Rajasthan. They met twice in 2022, with the Royals triumphant on both occasions.
West Indian batsman Shimron Hetmyer recently proved that he is much more than just a finisher for the Royals. He can arrive at the crease early and construct extended innings and not just brief cameos.
The Super Giants will likely continue opening the batting with West Indian Kyle Mayers. He has done consistently well at the top of the order, meaning Lucknow will probably go without South Africa's Quinton de Kock again.
The Rajasthan Royals are on a veritable roll and look the best positioned to win this. The Super Giants' charge was limited by Punjab - and Rajasthan will likely continue this.