Bhuvneshwar Kumar (Source: Debarchan Chatterjee/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Seventeen years after they kicked off the very first IPL match, Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bengaluru will once again begin the prestigious 18th season at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Saturday, March 22. The opening ceremony created a brilliant atmosphere, with Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan delivering a brilliant speech and dancing alongside Virat Kohli and Rinku Singh. Shreya Ghoshal, Disha Patani, and Karan Aujla’s powerful performances only added to the event.
Defending champions KKR, will be led by Ajinkya Rahane for the first. The side has backed their core players and will be looking to play in the same manner as they did in the previous edition. On the other hand, RCB, still hunting their first title, is coming in as a revamped squad. With Phil Salt, Josh Hazlewood, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar joining the squad, they look to turn history around.
Toss Update
Royal Challengers Bengaluru won the toss and decided to bowl first. The side went ahead with 3 fast bowlers and 2 spinners. On the other hand, the Kolkata-based franchise also fielded a similar combination. KKR skipper, Ajinkya Rahane mentioned that he would have also preferred to bowl first.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jacob Bethell miss out
Veteran Indian pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar was a surprising exclusion. Kumar who was acquired for INR 10.75 crore was expected to lead the pace attack, however, the side chose the young promising Rasikh Dar Salam. Another surprising exclusion was Jacob Bethell who didn’t make it to the cut.
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What did the captains say at the toss?
Rajat Patidar (Royal Challengers Bengaluru):
We have decided to bowl first, the pitch looks hard. Amazing to lead RCB and great opportunity to learn from the great players. We have done proper preparations for the last 10-15 days. I am confused with this impact player. We are going with 3 fast bowlers and 2 spinners.
Ajinkya Rahane (Kolkata Knight Riders):
It’s an honour to lead this team. Our preparation has been good, the core group has been the same. Looking forward to bat well first and defend later on. It is all about giving the players the freedom and allow them to play as a unit. We are playing 3 fast bowlers and 2 spinners.
KKR vs RCB Playing XIs:
Kolkata Knight Riders:
Quinton de Kock(w), Venkatesh Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane(c), Rinku Singh, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Ramandeep Singh, Spencer Johnson, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy
Royal Challengers Bengaluru:
Virat Kohli, Philip Salt(w), Rajat Patidar(c), Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma, Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Rasikh Dar Salam, Suyash Sharma, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal
Disclaimer: The information presented in this news article is based on the author’s insights, analysis, and perspective. Readers are encouraged to evaluate the details thoughtfully and draw their own conclusions.
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