The IPL continues this weekend with teams vying for valuable points at the mid-pojnt of the season. LSG have the chance to make the biggest move with the franchise in action on both Friday and Sunday. James Richardson previews matches 26-29.
Lucknow Super Giants pull double duty in this weekend’s IPL action.
LSG are in action on Friday and Sunday in what could be an important pair of fixtures for the franchise.
Table-topping Rajasthan Royals will also have a chance to extend their advantage at the top of the table.
Friday 12 April
LSG 67/100 | Tie 25/1 | Capitals 5/4 (16:00)
Nicholas Pooran continues to be the standout star with the bat for LSG and could be a key player once more on Friday evening.
LSG also have the raw pace of Mayank Yadav to call on as the quick continues an impressive campaign.
The Capitals will still be looking for more from David Warner, especially after the injury to his former international teammate Mitch Marsh.
Left-arm seamer Khaleel Ahmed has been DC’s surprise package but they would also like their experienced campaigners to bring more with the ball.
Verdict: Lucknow Super Giants 67/100
LSG are firm favourites here and are tipped to cruise to victory over the rock-bottom Capitals.
Saturday 13 April
Kings 5/4 | Tie 25/1 | Royals 67/100 (16:00)
Kagiso Rabada continues to threaten to pull the Punjab Kings up by his bootstraps but he needs more runs on the board to work with.
The Royals have had a consistent flow of runs from the likes of Riyan Parag even if their big stars have faltered.
Shashank Singh’s form has been good but the Punjab Kings man’s finishing was left in question when he ended not out in the Kings’ failed chase last time out.
The Royals Yuzvendra Chahal tops the wicket-takers to date and will be a threat once again.
Verdict: Rajasthan Royals 67/100
Despite the best efforts of KG, the Royals should bounce back from their defeat against the Titans here.
Sunday 14 April
Knight Riders | Tie 25/1 | Super Giants (12:00) *betting tba
Kolkata Knight Riders will be out to avoid losing momentum after a good start to the IPL.
Sunil Narine’s pinch-hitting has come off from time to time but KKR need to be more flexible.
LSG could build a lot of momentum with wins on Friday and Sunday or could see their season torpedoed by a couple of defeats.
Andre Russell has to be one of the most intimidating players to face in an IPL setting and is a weapon for KKR.
Verdict: Kolkata Knight Riders
On paper, this looks a tight contest. I’m leaning toward the Knight Riders, however, but this is potentially one to avoid.
Indians 72/100 | Tie 25/1 | 23/20 (16:00)
The grand old clash of IPL brings forth another instalment as MI host CSK at the Wankhede.
CSK have traditionally enjoyed playing in Mumbai securing several notable wins at the Wankhede.
Mustafizur Rahman’s wicket-taking has helped an inconsistent CSK stay in touch with the playoff places.
MI have recently shown signs of improvement but right now CSK look like they should have the beating of their rivals.
Verdict: Chennai Super Kings 23/20
The Super Kings are tipped to edge this against a Mumbai outfit who haven’t really got properly going yet.
