Royal Challengers vs. Knight Riders

The first of another exciting double-header at Centurion tonight sees wooden spoon franchises Bangalore Royal Challengers (1.67) and Kolkata Knight Riders (2.20) clash in an encounter that may just turn out to be a cracker. Despite featuring star studded line-ups, both teams have underperformed so far in Indian Premier League 2009 and both will be desperate to avoid finishing last in the tournament. If there was ever a time for a resurgent display against a vulnerable foe, this is it.

IPL odds supplied courtesy of Canbet.com. New members receive a £25 Cricket Free Bet.  

IPL match preview:

Bangalore Royal Challengers

IPL 2009 so far: Played – 10, Won – 4, Lost -6

Following two successive losses, the situation is not looking good for the Royal Challengers. After taking over the captaincy from Kevin Pietersen Anil Kumble led a mini-revival, but now with his team in slump again he faces a massive task to lift spirits in the dressing room and reignite intensity on the field. Disciplined cricket will be required from here on in if the Challengers are to avoid further decline.

Best Bet for Bangalore Royal Challengers:          

Rahul Dravid – 8/10
Jacques Kallis -8/10
Virat Kohli – 8/10
Anil Kumble – 7/10
Praveen Kumar – 6/10

Kolkata Knight Riders

IPL 2009 so far: Played – 10, Won – 1, Lost – 8, N/R – 1

It appears as if there is no relief for the Knight Riders. Sloppy fielding, poor batting and chaotic bowling paints a disappointing picture of their performance in Indian Premier League 2009 so far. Murali Karthik is yet to pick up a wicket in the tournament, but is still figuring in the playing XI. David Hussy immediately replace Henriques as well.

Best Bet for Kolkata Knight Riders:

Sourav Ganguly – 9/10
David Hussey- 8/10
Brad Hodge – 8/10
Ishant Sharma- 7/10
Brendon McCullum – 6/10