Back to back victories following a slump in form has taken Team Hyderabad’s spirit to a new high. With that form on their back, the next task lies in Chennai as MS Dhoni awaits with his men for a game of vengeance.
It was on April 17 that these two sides had clashed, and the story was not much different. Chasing a mere 133, both David Warner and Jonny Bairstow scored half-centuries as their team emerged victorious by six wickets.
The story this time around though will be entirely different. Hyderabad will be entering the lion’s den, MA Chidambaram Stadium, a venue where they haven’t won up until now. As far as Chennai are concerned, they are unbeaten at this venue for six games running.
If history is anything to go by, Hyderabad does have a thing or two to worry about. They have won just three of their 11 games against Chennai. That being said, we look at who should be your top picks for the fixture.
Batsman: David Warner
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There’s absolutely no questioning this. The last time Warner faced Chennai’s bowling attack, he ended up scoring a half-century in absolute style. Furthermore, with 517 runs in mere nine games, Warner has formed a formidable partnership with Bairstow, and the duo has amazed whopping 729 runs between them.
There’s obviously a conundrum between the Aussies and his English teammate, but the former’s ability of going big at times is sure to give you extra bonus points.
Bowler: Imran Tahir
Manjunath Kiran / AFP
Despite the end result, spinner Imran Tahir was a glaring light for Chennai the last time they played Hyderabad. In his allotted four over, the South African conceded mere 20 runs and picked two wickets. Expect him to have a similar impact tonight.
Tahir, who has picked 16 wickets in 10 games this season, has been one of the best economical bowlers (5.89) of the tournament. Even his average (14.00) is only fourth best — behind Harbhajan Singh, Khaleel Ahmed and Mohammad Nabi — in the league.
All-rounder: Ravindra Jadeja
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Now this was one department which needed a little thinking and judging by the recent form, it is safe to pick Ravindra Jadeja. His capability of hitting big at the needed hour coupled with his artistry with the ball could hand you extra points.
Even in the last game, the 30-year-old scalped two wickets and provided little assistance during the chase.
