KKR vs PBKS Head to Head, Playing XI, Preview, Where to Watch on TV, Online, and Live Streaming Details

Preview:

With an aim of getting back on the winning track, Kolkata Knight Riders will take on Punjab Kings in Match 8 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. The encounter takes place at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on April 1 (Friday). The Knight Riders, who defeated the Chennai Super Kings in the season opener, suffered a three-wicket defeat against the Royal Challengers Bangalore in their previous fixture.

On the other hand, PBKS thrashed RCB by five wickets in their maiden assignment in the competition. Hence, they will step into the game with their heads held high. As far as the on-paper strength is concerned, PBKS seem like having an edge as their line-up looks pretty balanced. While skipper Mayank Agarwal and Shikhar Dhawan are the prominent names in the top order, Odean Smith and Shahrukh Khan are the designated finishers.

In Rahul Chahar and Arshdeep Singh, the side has also got some prominent Indian bowlers. However, the biggest news is Kagiso Rabada will be available for this fixture, enhancing the side’s bowling attack even further. As far as KKR are concerned, they also enjoy the services of several prominent figures like Shreyas Iyer, Tim Southee, Sunil Narine, and Andre Russell.

However, these players failed to come together as a unit against RCB as the side lost the contest by three wickets. Nonetheless, their bowlers did pretty well while defending a modest 128. On the other hand, the Mohali-based side chased down 206 with an over to spare against the same RCB bowling attack, which gave KKR a hard time. Hence, PBKS might step into this game as favourites, but being complacent against KKR can cost them big time.

Pitch and Conditions

The track at the Wankhede has had assistance for pacers early on with the new ball moving off the deck. However, the venom in the track eases out as the game progresses and hence, batters showcasing resilience in the initial overs will be awarded. Moreover, dew is all but likely to play a part once again. Hence, winning the toss and opting to bowl should be a no-brainer for the toss-winning captain.

Playing combinations for KKR vs PBKS

KKR

Despite the defeat against RCB, KKR are likely to continue with the same combination as there aren’t many potent options on the bench. As Tim Southee did well against Bangalore, Shivam Mavi will continue to be on the benches. There might be a thought of Mohammad Nabi replacing Sam Billings as the former is an all-rounder and has a ton of experience. However, scores of 25 not out and 14 should be enough to keep the England international in the XI.

Predicted XI: Ajinkya Rahane, Venkatesh Iyer, Nitish Rana, Shreyas Iyer (c), Sam Billings, Sheldon Jackson (wk), Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Tim Southee, Umesh Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy

PBKS

With Kagiso Rabada being available for this fixture, PBKS won’t retain their winning combination. Notably, the Kings fielded just three overseas players in their last fixture and hence, there’s an option of Rabada replacing an Indian player. Instead of a bowler, the South African speedster might replace batter Raj Bawa, who bagged a golden duck on his IPL debut. PBKS might follow this approach as they have a daunting batting line-up. Moreover, Harpreet Brar is a potent option at number seven.

Predicted XI: Mayank Agarwal (c), Shikhar Dhawan, Liam Livingstone, Bhanuka Rajapaksa (wk), Odean Smith, Shahrukh Khan, Kagiso Rabada, Arshdeep Singh, Harpreet Brar, Sandeep Sharma, Rahul Chahar

KKR vs PBKS Head-to-Head

Played- 29 l KKR – 19 l PBKS – 10 l NR- 0

KKR vs PBKS Broadcast Details

Match Timings – 07:30 PM IST

TV – Star Sports Network

Live Streaming – Disney+Hotstar