The upcoming Match 36 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 promises an exciting clash between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. As the two teams gear up to face each other, their journeys in the points table couldn’t be more different.

KKR has showcased a cohesive team performance, currently holding the second position with four wins and two losses in six matches. Their consistent efforts on the field have earned them a commendable standing in the tournament so far.

On the flip side, RCB finds themselves in a familiar position, reminiscent of past seasons, languishing at the bottom of the points table with just one win in seven games. Despite their talented roster, RCB has struggled to translate potential into victories this season, facing challenges that have hindered their progress.

KKR vs RCB: Head to Head Records:

• Since the inaugural season of the IPL in 2008, KKR and RCB have locked horns a total of 33 times.
• Their encounters have been characterized by fierce competition, with KKR holding a slight lead, securing victory in 19 matches, while RCB has notched up 14 wins.
• Over their recent six encounters, the battle between RCB and KKR has remained mostly one-sided, with KKR edging ahead with a 4-2 lead.
• At the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata, KKR have historically dominated, boasting a clear edge with 7 victories compared to RCB’s 4.
• These statistics underscore the intense competitiveness and rivalry between the two teams, heightening anticipation among cricket enthusiasts for their forthcoming clashes.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) Overview:

KKR will enter this contest after a loss against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in a thriller. Despite that setback, KKR will be full of confidence as they have performed very well this season. The form of openers, Phil Salt and Sunil Narine, has showcased dominance against every team with their batting prowess, while Andre Russell in the middle order is in great touch. Moreover, players like Mitchell Starc have been regaining their form, adding depth to the team.

KKR’s probable playing XI for the IPL 2024 game against RCB:

1. Phil Salt
2. Sunil Narine
3. Angkrish Raghuvanshi
4. Shreyas Iyer
5. Venkatesh Iyer
6. Andre Russell
7. Rinku Singh
8. Mitchell Starc
9. Harshit Rana
10. Vaibhav Arora
11. Varun Chakraborty

Squad Characteristics:

Salt opens the innings with aggressive intent, while Narine provides fireworks at the top with his explosive batting. Raghuvanshi adds stability to the middle order, alongside the classy Shreyas. Venkatesh’s all-round abilities strengthen the team’s balance. The destructive Russell brings his unparalleled hitting prowess to the side, while Rinku provides support in the lower middle order. In the bowling department, Starc spearheads the attack with his express pace, complemented by the young talent of Harshit and Vaibhav. Varun Chakravarthy’s mystery spin alongside Narine adds an extra dimension to the bowling lineup.

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Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) Overview:

RCB seems to be facing a myriad of challenges in this tournament. No matter how much their batters score, the opposition bowlers are always ready to dampen their efforts. Even scores over 200 are not enough to provide a sense of security to RCB, as their bowlers consistently struggle to contain the opposition batters. Whether playing at their home ground or away, RCB’s bowlers have often been taken to task by the other teams batters, highlighting a significant area of concern for the team.

RCB’s probable playing XI for the IPL 2024 game against KKR:

1. Faf du Plessis
2. Virat Kohli
3. Will Jacks
4. Rajat Patidar
5. Mahipal Lomror
6. Dinesh Karthik
7. Mayank Dagar
8. Vyshak Vijay Kumar
9. Reece Topley
10. Lockie Ferguson
11. Mohammed Siraj

A closure look:

Du plessis and Kohli form a formidable opening partnership, combining experience and aggression at the top. Jacks and Patidar provide stability in the middle order, while Lomror adds flair with his stroke play. Karthik’s experience and finishing abilities bolster the lower middle order. Dagar, alongside Jacks, provide spin options, while Topley and Ferguson lead the pace attack with their raw pace and accuracy. Siraj and Vijay Kumar completes the bowling lineup with his ability to swing the ball and take crucial wickets.

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