Sanju Samson is not playing for Rajasthan Royals. Photo: BCCI
Rajasthan Royals (RR) are once again without the services of their full-time captain, Sanju Samson, for their away game against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Eden Gardens. The wicketkeeper-batsman has missed the past couple of matches for RR and is sitting out again. Riyan Parag is leading RR in his absence.
Sanju Samson isn’t playing the fixture due to a side strain which he suffered against Delhi Capitals on April 16. He played the first 3 matches as an Impact Player and is once again out of the playing XI.
RR are also without the services of Sandeep Sharma, who has been ruled out of the tournament due to a fractured finger. The visitors made three changes in their playing XI. A fit-again Wanindu Hasaranga made his return to the final XI.
“I was happy that I lost the toss, wasn’t sure. It’s very challenging, you got to be professional on the field. A lot of work goes into it. Need to play for our pride. Need to bring more energy into the field. We are hoping to put a collective effort. Three changes in our team. Nitish Rana has a niggle, he goes out. Hasaranga comes back for Kumar Kartikeya. Kunal Rathore and Yudhvir are in,” RR captain, Riyan said at the toss.
It’s a must-win game for KKR and a defeat here will all but mark an end to their campaign. The defending IPL Champions have managed to win 4 out of their 10 matches and sit at the 7th spot in the points table.
They brought back Ramandeep Singh and Moeen Ali in the final XI. “We are going to bat first, looks a little dry. Not sure if it slows down in the second innings. We want to put a total on the board and defend it. Need to keep it simple. It’s all about taking one game at a time. Everyone’s contribution was good in the last game. Need to assess the conditions and adapt to it quickly. I am working really hard on my game, playing domestic cricket has helped me a lot. Trying to enjoy my game. Moeen and Ramandeep are back in the side,” Rahane said.
Rishav Narang author
Rishav Narang is a senior correspondent with Times Network. He has been with the organisation since 2018 and has over 8 years of experience in digital…View More
