KKR vs SRH: Probable Playing XIs, Key Players to Watch – Johnson Out, Nortje In
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are set to clash on Thursday (April 3) at Eden Gardens, both seeking their second victories in the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Having endured challenging starts, both teams aim to turn their fortunes around in this crucial encounter.
Recent Form and Head-to-Head
In their previous encounters last year, KKR dominated SRH, winning all three matches, including the first qualifier and the final. However, SRH will be eager to avenge those defeats and disrupt KKR’s momentum. KKR will need to adapt as Mitchell Starc’s absence has impacted their bowling attack and the batting order remains under scrutiny.
SRH’s Likely Playing XI
SRH's recent decision to bat first against Delhi Capitals in Vizag backfired due to a batting collapse. The team’s attempt to bring in leg-spinner Adam Zampa later in the innings wasn't successful. Key considerations for SRH include:
- Batting Order Concerns: Karnataka's Abhinav Manohar's form has been a concern. Scores of 0, 2 and 4 have put his place under pressure.
- Potential Changes: Aniket Verma’s finishing ability and Abhishek Sharma’s all-round skills could lead to the inclusion of Sri Lankan all-rounder Kamindu Mendis. Mendis can contribute valuable runs in the middle order while offering an off-spin option.
- Bowling Adjustments: If SRH bowls first, Adam Zampa is likely to start. Alternatively, Manohar or Kerala veteran Sachin Baby could be included. Mohammed Shami's form will also be under observation.
SRH’s probable XI: Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Heinrich Klaasen (WK), Aniket Verma, Kamindu Mendis, Pat Cummins (C), Zeeshan Ansari, Harshal Patel and Mohammed Shami
Impact Players: Jaydev Unadkat, Sachin Baby, Abhinav Manohar, Rahul Chahar and Atharva Taide
KKR’s Likely Playing XI
KKR is also seeking changes after a recent defeat, with Spencer Johnson struggling to make an impact. Key areas for KKR to address include:
- Sunil Narine’s Role: Utilizing Sunil Narine's skills more effectively, perhaps as a spin-hitting floater rather than relying solely on him as an opener.
- Bowling Changes: Spencer Johnson's performance has warranted a potential replacement with Anrich Nortje.
KKR’s probable XI: Quinton de Kock (WK), Ajinkya Rahane, Angkrisbh Raghuvanshi, Venkatesh Iyer (C), Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Ramandeep Singh, Sunil Narine, Anrich Nortje, Harshit Rana and Varun Chakaravarthy
Impact Players: Vaibhav Arora, Spencer Johnson, Anukul Roy, Manish Pandey and Luvnith Sisodia
Key Stats & Updates
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