Inconsistent Chennai Super Kings up against in-form Rajasthan Royals

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Having resurrected their campaign with a narrow win over Pune Warriors, the Chennai Super Kings will look at moving further up the table against Rajasthan Royals.

On paper, the two units look evenly matched. Rajasthan have optimised potential while the hosts have struggled to achieve what they are capable of.

The defending champions have had trouble in finding the right combination and Albie Morkel’s absence has only deepened their problems.

However the elevation of S. Badrinath as opener and Nuwan Kulasekara’s rhythm with the new ball has covered a few gaping holes. Rajasthan’s best chance will be in exposing Chennai’s chinks at the top.

Some pieces in the jigsaw are yet to fall in place for M.S. Dhoni. Doug Bollinger and R. Ashwin have not been at their best. The attack needs direction and a better plan to click consistently.

Shadab Jakati and Ravindra Jadeja have filled in well to lend some stability. As in the previous seasons, a few wins in a row will add to the confidence.

Chennai has thrived on momentum and a positive result on Saturday will put them on course.

Dhoni took a long shot by handing the opening slot to Badri, a position he is hardly accustomed to. Faf Du Plessis is a natural striker and his style should complement Badri’s assured ways.

Suresh Raina has threatened to break free and if he can do that, Chennai will look a different team.

Rahul Dravid has been astute in his leadership and his young team has responded brilliantly.

Ajinkya Rahane, Dravid and Owais Shah present a strong top-order and unless Chennai manage to cut through the trio, they could be staring at a hard battle.

The former champions have thrived on bowlers who have kept things simple but they would require something extra on a placid Chepauk wicket that has increasingly favoured the batsmen.

Dew can be a factor and it would be a wise idea to chase. A good start and sharpness in the outfield will go a long way in deciding this contest.

Key player : Chennai Super Kings Dwayne Bravo

Bravo’s all-round abilities has come as a shot in the arm for Chennai. He has proved to be the best value addition this season.

His ability to play the big shots has given the middle order the cutting edge. Bravo’s athleticism and useful change of pace makes him the trump card.

Key player : Rajasthan Royals Ajinkya Rahane

The youngster is not on top of the batting chart without reason. To Rahane’s credit, his scores have been accumulated without trying to better himself.

His straight bat methods has been a refreshing change from the crowd that believes that everything has to be slogged out of sight.