There are some big time clashes coming up in the 2022 IPL as we move past the halfway mark.
Wednesday 27 April 2022
Gujarat Titans 82/100 | Draw 25/1 | Sunrisers Hyderabad 21/20
Gujarat Titans can move to the top of the IPL standings if they can overcome the in-form Sunrisers Hyderabad.
Since losing twice on the bounce out of the gate the Sunrisers have gone on a five match unbeaten run.
The Titans are on their own three-match streak and have lost just once in the 2022 IPL to date.
T Natarajan has been the standout performer during the Sunrisers run proving nearly unplayable in the last few outings.
Verdict: Sunrisers Hyderabad (21/20)
Thursday 28 April 2022
Delhi Capitals 92/100 | Draw 25/1 | Kolkata Knight Riders 92/100
The Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders are two squads that are clearly underachieving.
Both are loaded with match-winners but they have struggled to get over the line with batting lapses costing them places on the ladder.
This match is an opportunity for one team to push off from the bottom and mount a serious playoff challenge.
The Delhi Capitals have looked closer to getting it right recently while KKR are on a four-match losing streak
Verdict: Delhi Capitals (92/100)
Friday 29 April 2022
Punjab Kings 21/20 | Draw 25/1 | Lucknow Super Giants 82/100
There isn’t much separating these sides but the Punjab Kings would love to trade places with Lucknow Super Giants.
LSG have been bolstered by former Punjab Kings skipper KL Rahul who was handpicked as the new franchise’s skipper.
Both sides come into the match off the back of victory last time out and will want to keep their momentum going with the playoff phase looming.
Shikhar Dhawan has quietly replaced KL Rahul at Punjab and has settled into his role well after a sluggish start.
Verdict: Lucknow Super Giants (82/100)
Saturday 30 April 2022
Gujarat Titans vs Royal Challengers Bangalore (TBA)
The Titans face another stern test of their playoff credentials in a Royal Challengers Bangalore team that threatens to find its feet.
RCB have lost a few more close matches than they would like but have otherwise been consistent in the level of their performances.
A win for the Titans will get them close to confirming a place in the playoffs.
The bar set in previous seasons is no longer appropriate though given the expansion of the tournament and the fight for the top four should be fierce.
Verdict: Gujarat Titans (TBA)
Rajasthan Royals 82/100 | Draw 25/1 | Mumbai Indians 21/20
The high-flying Rajasthan Royals are in action against a team whose hopes of making the playoffs are already in tatters.
Mumbai Indians have still not bagged their first win of the campaign and you’d be brave to back them against a red-hot Royals outfit.
MI finisher Suryakumar Yadav has been asked to spend too much time at the crease with the top order not pulling their weight.
The Royals meanwhile are flying high off the back of Jos Buttler’s brilliance and will be tough to stop.
Verdict: Rajasthan Royals (82/100)
