IPL 2021, DC vs RR preview: Can Rajasthan stop an unstoppable Delhi to keep its playoffs race alive?
Delhi Capitals looks unstoppable at the moment in the IPL 2021, as it gets set to face off against Rajasthan Royals, as the latter has a newly-found mojo. However, does RR have what it takes to stop DC?
FollowThe 2021 Indian Premier League (IPL) will witness another exciting clash on Saturday. Delhi Capitals would take on former champion Rajasthan Royals in Match 36 at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.
DC is currently atop the table and would aim for a win to virtually seal its playoffs berth. As for RR, it pulled off a dramatic two-run win against Punjab Kings in its last game and would want to ride on the same momentum as we present the preview of this thrilling tie.
Team composition
DC has a balanced side across departments, while the possession of its star power, too, happens to be equally distributed, making it one of the most organised sides of the tournament. DC is the team to beat with a strong top-order, aided by a prolific middle-order and a reliable bowling attack.
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As for RR, it happens to be the complete opposite of DC. It lacks enough star power, thus making it more vulnerable. However, its young talent is highly competitive and can give a tough time to any team. Also, it is heavy on its bowling, as it was the same that gave PBKS a challenge in its last game, thus pulling off a thriller.
LIVE SCORECARD: IPL 2021 -Â DC vs RR
Injury concerns
DC has an injury concern in all-rounder Marcus Stoinis, who pulled his hamstring in the last game. However, RR is free of injuries, with the entire squad raring to go.
Head-to-head
The two sides have clashed on 23 occasions and are nearly even, with RR leading 12-11. DC has won both of the two games in UAE, while it would be their maiden clash in Abu Dhabi.
Weather and pitch report
The Abu Dhabi weather would be hot, with around 36 degrees of temperature and almost 56% humidity. The track surprisingly aided the batsmen in its last game. However, it tends to stay on the slower side and could be the case if the strip is changed.
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Probable XI
DC: Prithvi Shaw, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer, Shimron Hetmyer, Rishabh Pant (c & wk), Steve Smith, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje and Avesh Khan.
RR: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Evin Lewis, Sanju Samson (c & wk), Liam Livingstone, Riyan Parag, Rahul Tewatia, Mahipal Lomror, Chris Morris, Chetan Sakariya, Kartik Tyagi and Mustafizur Rahman.
Fantasy XI
Batters: Dhawan (c), Shaw, Parag- Dhawan and Shaw are known for their deadly opening batting and would continue the trend, while Parag has been in good form and should consolidate in the middle. Dhawan consistent form makes him the skipper.
Wicketkeepers: Samson, Pant- Samson is sure to deliver at number three, while Pant is also the man in form and would fire in the middle.
All-rounders: Morris (vc), Axar- Morris has been deadly with the ball this season and would be a no-brainer here, making him the deputy skipper, while Axar's beautiful impact with the spin makes him a must-have.
Bowlers: Rahman, Avesh, Rabada, Sakariya- An all-out pace attack is what we expect, with Rabada headlining it, while the other three make it to the XI based on their recent form and performances.
Match details
Date and day: September 25, 2021 (Saturday)
Venue: Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi
Time: 3.30 PM (IST)
Where to watch (TV): Star Sports 1 and Star Sports 1 Hindi (Also available in HD, along with regional languages)
Where to watch (Online): Hotstar
