The 2024 Indian Premier League Eliminator is set for an exciting showdown on Wednesday evening, with Rajasthan Royals taking on Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. Scheduled to start at 19:30 local time on May 22nd, this match promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams vie for a spot in the next stage of the tournament.
Match Overview
Team Backgrounds
- Rajasthan Royals (RR): Finishing third in the group stage, Rajasthan Royals had a strong start, winning eight out of their first nine matches. However, they experienced a dip in form towards the end, with their last match against Kolkata Knight Riders ending in a washout.
- Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB): RCB’s journey to the playoffs has been remarkable. Starting at the bottom of the table, Faf du Plessis’ side made a stunning comeback, securing the final playoff spot with consistent performances.
Key Match Information
- Date and Time: May 22nd, 19:30 local time
- Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
Live Streaming and TV Channels
- India: Star Network (TV), Jio Cinema (Streaming)
- UK: Sky Sports
- Australia: Fox Sports, Foxtel Go, Kayo (Streaming)
- New Zealand: Sky Sport NZ
- South Africa: SuperSport
- USA: Willow TV
- Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal: Yupp TV
Toss and Pitch Report
Toss Prediction
Historically, 55% of IPL matches at Narendra Modi Stadium have been won by the team fielding first. Both teams are likely to prefer bowling first if they win the toss.
Pitch Report
The pitch at Narendra Modi Stadium is known for producing high scores. It favors quick bowlers over spinners, with reliable pace and bounce. Expect the first batting team to aim for a score above 210.
Weather Report
The weather forecast indicates scorching temperatures, potentially exceeding 40 degrees Celsius at the start of the game, and remaining above 37 degrees even by midnight.
Team Previews and Key Players
Rajasthan Royals
Team News
Rajasthan Royals face challenges with key players missing, notably Jos Buttler who has returned to the UK.
Key Players
- Sanju Samson: Averaging 56 this season with 47 fours.
- Yashasvi Jaiswal: Capable of game-changing performances.
- Yuzvendra Chahal: The only player with over 200 IPL wickets.
- Avesh Khan: Critical for his fast-medium bowling.
Possible Impact Player Substitutes
- Nandre Burger, Tanush Kotian, Keshav Maharaj, Kuldeep Sen, Donovan Ferreira
Predicted Playing 11
Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Sanju Samson (c) (wk), Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Rovman Powell, Trent Boult, Avesh Khan, Sandeep Sharma, Yuzvendra Chahal
Royal Challengers Bengaluru
Team News
RCB enters the match with high confidence and no significant injuries, aside from the absence of Will Jacks.
Key Players
- Virat Kohli: Leading run-scorer, averaging 64.36 this season.
- Faf du Plessis: Consistent performer and team captain.
- Glenn Maxwell: All-rounder with impactful performances.
- Yash Dayal: Key wicket-taker.
Possible Impact Player Substitutes
- Swapnil Singh, Anuj Rawat, Suyash Prabhudesai, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Himanshu Sharma
Predicted Playing 11
Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis (c), Rajat Patidar, Cameron Green, Dinesh Karthik, Glenn Maxwell, Mahipal Lomror, Yash Dayal, Karn Sharma, Mohammed Siraj, Lockie Ferguson
Match Prediction
Although Rajasthan Royals started strong, their recent form is concerning. RCB, on the other hand, has gained significant momentum. We predict Royal Challengers Bengaluru to continue their winning streak and advance to Qualifier 2.
Prediction: Royal Challengers Bengaluru to beat Rajasthan Royals