20/04/2009

Chennai Super Kings Vs Royal Challengers – Port Elizabeth

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CSK must field the right combination

The Bangalore and Chennai teams head for Port Elizabeth. This match is crucial for both teams. For CSK (Chennai Super Kings) it is vital to win as two consecutive defeats will leave them trailing on the points table and as for the RC, they will have to feed on the surprising win against RR and build momentum.

The South African pitches (going by the ones we saw at Cape Town) are sporting. This means teams need to be multi-dimensional and are always in with a chance of swaying the match their way and hence the team composition is important.

The Chennai Super Kings failed to get the right combination for their first match against Mumbai Indians. In addition, they have to change the batting order. Badrinath should move up the order to provide more dynamism. He can destabilize the opposition with his quick singles, deft nudges and his calculated big hitting will complement Hayden & Flintoff’s powerhouse batting.

The CSK bowlers did a competent job against MI. However, Murali should play instead of Tushara and as he is lethal when playing under the lights. He is also capable of bowling with control when using a greasy ball.

In the last 4 matches (let us ignore the Delhi - Mohali match) the 7.5 minutes strategic break has altered the flow of the game. CSK have to prevent the match from slipping out of their hands as it did after the strategic break last time.

Despite the threat of rains (if any) Chennai Super Kings should bat first as Royal Challengers Bangalore are fragile lot. There is only one batsmen who is doughty, that is Dravid, but he appears overwrought by the negative vibes emanating from his team owner.

In short, Chennai Super Kings have an excellent opportunity to beat RC if they get their team composition right and bat first if they win the toss.

Don’t you think the right combination will do the trick?

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