We already have one finalist and we have couple of matches before the final to get another finalist. Mumbai Indians are already through to the final and they are enjoying a much deserved break. Chennai Super Kings will fly to Ranchi to meet the winner of today's match in the second qualifier. Before that we have the eliminator match which features Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bangalore.
Rajasthan Royals, after a topsy-turvy route in this IPL have finally made it to the final four. They won five matches on the trot to begin the IPL. Unfortunately that was followed by many losses which gave them a fear of elimination. In a do or die match against KKR, they scored 199 and restricted KKR to 190. In that nail biter, Shane Watson proved his worth with a hundred and superb bowling effort too. Rajasthan Royals would expect similar stunt from Watson and some good runs from the bat of Steve Smith, Ajinkya Rahane, Sanju Samson and many more to name.
Chris Morris has played a major role in the bowling line up for RR. At times he could be very expensive but he would regularly provide you with breakthroughs. And at times he comes in handy with his bat. Pravin Tambe might get an opportunity tonight and he would play a major role.
Royal Challengers Bangalore boasts one of the strongest batting line ups. If the likes of Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli or AB de Villiers get going, Rajasthan Royal might see nightmares tonight. Considered as favourites tonight, RCB are expected to pull out a win and go ahead to win their first ever IPL title. For that they need three straight wins which ideally isn't what they usually do. They have reached the top four but they have never been too consistent in winning few matches on the trot.
Mitchell Starc has made the biggest difference to the team since he joined the playing XI. He has been highly economical and clinched wickets regularly. He has been able to contain good batsmen thus helping the team to restrict the opposition to low totals. Ashok Dinda failed to impress so he might be replaced with Varun Aaron or S Aravind. Virat Kohli would expect good bowling from Chahal, Wiese and Harshal Patel who likely to play tonight.
Head to head these two teams have faced each other on 14 occasions. Both have managed seven wins each. The winner tonight will take the tally to eight and also meet CSK at Ranchi for the second Qualifier. Mumbai Indians would keep an eye on both these matches before they play at the Eden Gardens for the prestigious IPL title.
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