The 2018 edition of the Indian Premier League hasn’t disappointed, with all the glitz, glamour, and big-hitting that defines cricket’s leading T20 tournament.
Our cricket betting expert has taken a look through the best bets for this weekend’s games.
Royal Challengers Bangalore v Rajasthan Royals
Most British interest in this one will be down to possibly England’s two best white-ball players lining up alongside each other for the Rajasthan Royals – Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler.
Stokes, who was named IPL MVP last year, has enjoyed a mixed start to his Royals career, winning one and losing one.
He is yet to fire with bat or ball – but the fiery all-rounder is rarely far from the headlines.
RCB are yet to taste victory this year, though they have only played once.
Stokes and Buttler will see a familiar face in the opposition, Chris Woakes – who lines up with the explosive Virat Kohli, Brendon McCullum and Quinton de Kock in the Bangalore ranks.
However, while their batting is strong, they might have the firepower with the ball to claim victory here.
I suggest backing the Rajasthan Royals at 11/10.
Mumbai Indians v Delhi Daredevils
Something’s got to give for one of the Mumbai Indians or Delhi Daredevils – both have lost their two matches they’ve played so far in this year’s tournament.
Mumbai were unlucky in defeat, however, being squeezed out by just a wicket each time – and had things gone differently, could easily be sitting on a 100% record.
Rohit Sharma’s side are 4/6 for this one
The Daredevils sit bottom of the table, and it is already shaping up to be a long season.
They simply haven’t put enough runs on the board so far, and a lack of firepower could cost them again here.
I suggest backing the Indians to claim a morale-boosting victory here.
Kolkata Knight Riders v Sunrisers Hyderabad
Two wins from two for the Sunrisers have seen them shoot to the top of the table.
The 2016 champions look well placed for another tilt at the play-offs, even with David Warner missing the tournament through his ban.
An unbeaten 77 by Shikhar Dhawan saw them to a comfortable victory over Rajasthan Royals in their first match, and he could see them fire again here.
KKR, led by Dinesh Karthik are missing an Aussie of their own, after Mitchell Starc pulled out of the tournament through injury.
His absence leaves the Kolkata side a little light with the ball, even though spinner Sunil Narine is always a threat.
I think the Sunrisers can continue their fine start, and will be backing them to win here at 19/20.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.