DC Vs CSK, Match Preview
The Delhi Capitals have been the most consistent side in the last three seasons. They came third in 2019, finished as runners in 2020, and are serious title contenders this season. Their fortunes have changed after struggling to make the playoffs for many years in the past. The Delhi Capitals are using the same core group of players, and consistent growth in individual talent has allowed them to develop into a strong outfit.
The Chennai Super Kings aren’t in the best form, and have lost twice this season to the Delhi Capitals. They last beat the Delhi Capitals in 2019, and are struggling against the Delhi Capitals. This season has seen a changed approach for Chennai, as they found their aggressive ways again. They are going in with a lot of intent, and despite the loss in momentum, they are a dangerous side. Another thing in Chennai’s favor is their playoff experience. They are a regular side in the playoffs, know how to handle pressure well and can be very dangerous in the knockout stage.
The form of their players though is a concern. There are some inconsistent performers, and with their recent performances against Delhi, a win looks tough for Chennai. The winner goes straight into the final, and Delhi will be hoping to carry their momentum into this game and make their second consecutive final.
DC Vs CSK, Team News
The Capitals are only using three overseas players. They may bring in Marcus Stoinis, if he is fit. Incase he is fit; he will come in place of Ripal Patel. His inclusion will come as a blessing to Pant, as the balance of the side will look much better.
With Sam Curran out, Dwayne Bravo is likely to continue as the seam bowling order. His bowling has been good, and his experience will come in handy against a tough team. If fit Suresh Raina can come in for Robin Uthappa. Uthappa may continue though as he could help counter Ashwin, being a right-hander. Raina’s record in knockouts though is tough to overlook, and it will be a tough call to make regarding the two players.
DC Vs CSK, Predicted XIs
Delhi Capitals: 1 Prithvi Shaw, 2 Shikhar Dhawan, 3 Rishabh Pant (capt & wk), 4 Shreyas Iyer, 5 Shimron Hetmyer, 6 Marcus Stoinis/ Ripal Patel, 7 Axar Patel, 8 R Ashwin, 9 Kagiso Rabada, 10 Anrich Nortje, 11 Avesh Patel
Chennai Super Kings: 1 Ruturaj Gaikwad, 2 Faf du Plessis, 3 Moeen Ali, 4 Ambati Rayudu, 5 Robin Uthappa/ Suresh Raina, 6 MS Dhoni (capt & wk), 7 Ravindra Jadeja, 8 Dwayne Bravo, 9 Shardul Thakur, 10 Deepak Chahar, 11 Josh Hazlewood
DC Vs CSK, Players to Watch out for
Suresh Raina
In case Raina is fit and selected, he could be a key player in the qualifier. While his recent performances haven’t been good, the batter has an impeccable record in the IPL playoffs. He plays well under pressure, and could help CSK get back into rhythm after losing three games in a row.
Shikhar Dhawan
The Chennai Super Kings are turning out to be a favorite opponent for Shikhar Dhawan. Shikhar hit a century against them last year, and took apart Deepak Chahar in a small chase. He also scored well in their match-up during the Indian leg. He took a blow from George Garton, but his availability hasn’t been spoken about ever since. His wicket is key for Chennai Super Kings if they look to dent the Delhi Capitals in a bid to make the finals.
DC Vs CSK, Pitch Report
The Dubai surface is getting better for batting with dew coming in to play. It is still slow, and sluggish, and with timing a touch difficult for new batters. There is decent bounce with the occasional ball keeping low. The dew factor will be key and the side bowling second has an advantage.
