A Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) team, in the absence of regular captain Rajat Paitdar, saw Jitesh Sharma stepping up to lead the side. In a strategic move, Jitesh opted to bowl first against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on a newly prepared pitch in Lucknow, aiming to take advantage of the initial moisture.
Phil Salt, back in good health, was named in RCB’s starting line-up. However, Paitdar, still recovering, was limited to batting duties and was listed as a substitute. Speaking about the decision, RCB coach Andy Flower remarked, “Considering our away record, we’re comfortable playing in Lucknow.”
Meanwhile, SRH saw the return of key players, including Travis Head, who had missed the previous game due to illness. Joining him in the team were Abhinav Manohar and Jaydev Unadkat. Mohammed Shami, also previously out, was named as a substitute, ready to join the game as SRH take the field.
The match held significant implications for RCB, who had secured a playoff spot but were eyeing a top-two finish. This position offers a strategic advantage in the playoffs, allowing some degree of leniency. With 17 points and a game in hand, they trailed the table-toppers Gujarat Titans, who had 18 points. Punjab Kings were also in the mix, level with RCB on 17 points from 12 matches.
In summary, the teams lined up as follows:
Sunrisers Hyderabad Starting XI:
1. Travis Head
2. Abhishek Sharma
3. Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper)
4. Nitish Reddy
5. Heinrich Klaasen
6. Aniket Verma
7. Abhinav Manohar
8. Pat Cummins (captain)
9. Harshal Patel
10. Eshan Malinga
11. Jaydev Unadkat
Impact Substitutes:
Mohammed Shami, Harsh Dubey, Sachin Baby, Zeeshan Ansari, Simarjeet Singh
Royal Challengers Bangalore Starting XI:
1. Phil Salt
2. Virat Kohli
3. Mayank Agarwal
4. Jitesh Sharma (captain & wicketkeeper)
5. Romario Shepherd
6. Tim David
7. Krunal Pandya
8. Bhuvneshwar Kumar
9. Yash Dayal
10. Lungi Ngidi
11. Suyash Sharma
Impact Substitutes:
Rajat Patidar, Rasikh Salam, Manoj Bhandage, Jacob Bethell, Swapnil Singh
As this exciting fixture unfolds, RCB’s tactical choices and SRH’s returning assets promise a fascinating contest for cricketing enthusiasts.
