IPL 2022: 3 Changes KKR should make for their game against RR

Kolkata Knight Riders started off really well in IPL 2022, but have not been able to find winning ways since the past two matches. Shreyas Iyer made a few changes to the side, but it did not work as KKR lost two matches in a row. In the six games played so far, KKR have three wins and as many defeats.

The batting unit seems to be dependent upon just a few players as the top-order batters have not been able to showcase longstanding performance. The team will have to jump back to the track in order to make their way back into the top four of the points table. Sunil Narine has been the most economical bowler in the past few games, and he will be expected to continue showcasing his skills.

Here are three changes that KKR need to make for their next game

1. Dropping Aaron Finch and letting Nitish Rana open

If Nitish Rana is brought to the top of the order and made to open the game alongside Venkatesh Iyer, as he did in the IPL 2021 edition, there are chances of him playing more openly and freely, without any pressure.

In his very first game of IPL 2021 against Sunrisers Hyderabad, Rana scored a blistering knock of 80(56) at a strike rate of 142.85. He continued his form in the next game when he brought up a half-century against the Mumbai Indians.

Rana can prove more useful in building the innings, rather than anchoring it down the order and under pressure. A perfect start with the bat can help the team get a good total in the beginning and the batting line-up can go on to fulfill it.

2. Include Tim Southee to strengthen the bowling

The exclusion of Tim Southee from the bowling line-up proved costly for the Shreyas Iyer-led side. Southee has played only two games this season so far and has managed to add five wickets to his bag.

He has the experience of defending scores in the death overs, and his experience as an outswinger comes in handy for the team. He also holds the ability to go on a hitting role with the bat if required.

With Southee’s inclusion, KKR’s bowling line-up will grow even stronger. He has the ability to pick crucial wickets in the powerplay, dismissing the top order as well as during the death overs, dismissing the middle/lower order.

3. Drop Aman Khan and include Anukul Roy

Anukul Roy’s all-around skills can help KKR in both departments. After his impressive performance at the U19 World Cup in 2018, he was roped in by Mumbai Indians, and has the experience of training and playing with some of the cricketing greats.

The 23-year-old youngster is very economical with the ball and is also a hit machine. He showcased his skills with the bat during his game against Pakistan at the World Cup when his cameo helped India win the game.

He can contribute with the ball in the middle and can walk out to finish the game in the lower order. He was one of the pillars of the Indian U19 winning squad and can prove his worth for KKR as well if given the chance.