Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) entered the indian Premier League (IPL) last year without any expectations and unexpectedly lifted the trophy by defeating Sunrisers hyderabad in the final. As the defending champions and with excellent players on the team, everyone firmly believed that KKR would enter the ring as title favorites this year as well. However, KKR players could not meet the expectations of the fans at all. They completely failed to show their level of play. As a result, KKR faced the misfortune of having to go home from the group stage this time. Kolkata's hopes were dashed when a crucial match, which they had to win to stay in the play-off race, was cancelled due to rain.
Having played a total of 13 matches, KKR managed only 5 wins and settled for 12 points. The cancellation of two matches due to rain also hurt their chances. With this, kolkata Knight Riders are officially out of the playoffs. Sunrisers hyderabad (SRH), who played the final against KKR last season, are also in a bad situation. SRH also disappointed badly this season, winning just three of their 11 matches and exiting the tournament in the group stage. After a long break, there was a huge buzz at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru as the IPL match was held. Fans reached the stadium in large numbers. However, the rain showered water on their hopes. The match between KKR and RCB was canceled due to heavy rain. As a result, both teams got one point each. While this single point hurt KKR's playoff hopes, it came in handy for royal challengers Bangalore (RCB). With this point, RCB has reached a better position (17 points) in the points table. Although two more matches are to be played, it is a formality for RCB to reach the playoffs if they win any one match or get a point with a better net run rate. This time, RCB players have been playing well from the beginning. They are showing their strength in crucial matches and are showing balance in the batting and bowling departments. That is why they have been able to bring the team to the playoffs. Looking at the way they are playing now, if everything goes as planned, it is not surprising that RCB will emerge victorious this time. RCB fans are also giving their strong support to their team wherever they go, saying "Ee Sala Cup Namade" (This time the cup is ours).Thus, while last year's champion KKR's exit in the group stage this time was disappointing, the point due to rain has kept the playoff hopes alive for Bangalore.
click and follow Indiaherald WhatsApp channel