Deccan Chargers v Pune Warriors - Match Preview
The Deccan Chargers are set to take on Pune Warriors today, May 10, 2011, in the 53th game of the Indian Premier League at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Hyderabad-c792.
Pune and Deccan hold 8th and 9th positions respectively on the points table with 6 points each. Both sides have won 3 out of 10 games they have played so far.
Today’s game will have no impact on the standings of either team since both are not likely to qualify for the play-offs.
However, tt is going to be the first encounter between the two sides in this tournament.
Captaincy analysis
http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Yuvraj-Singh-c98364: The ‘Man of the Tournament’ of the World Cup 2011, Yuvraj Singh, is leading the Pune from the front. With his brash batting and tricky bowling, Yuvraj has proven himself as a brilliant all-rounder.
During the World Cup, Yuvraj was awarded the ‘Man of the Match’ title four times. He also bagged a World record with his 5-wicket haul and a smashing fifty in the same match.
Kumar Sangakkara: The Chargers are led by Sangakkara, a composed and talented Sri Lankan wicket-keeper batsman. Kumar recently stepped down from Lankan captaincy.
During his two-year captaincy career, he earned many glaring victories for his national side. He has a calm temperament and is technically sound. He believes in his players and leads them according to the situation.
Players to watch-out for
Deccan Chargers:
http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Shikhar-Dhawan-c90019: The left-handed opening batsman, Dhawan is popular in the Indian domestic circuit. He was the ‘Man of the tournament’ in the Under-19 World Cup 2003-04. His Ranji Trophy achievements also showcase his abilities.
http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Jean-Paul-Duminy-c66758: The South African stroke master, Duminy, was average throughout the World Cup 2011, however, he seems to be in good form during this tournament. As a middle-order batsman, he strives to stabilize the innings.
Pune Warriors:
Jesse Ryder: A skilled and experienced Kiwi opener, Ryder is having a good time in this year’s IPL. He opens for Pune and has been providing them with strong starts. He has been a game changer for the Black Caps throughout the World Cup
2011 and has been doing the same for his franchise in the IPL.
Nathan McCullum: McCullum is a talented Kiwi all-rounder. His contribution to his national side during their World Cup campaign was invaluable. He is good with the ball, an excellent fielder and a handy batsman.
Overall view
Both the teams have not done justice with the talent they possess in this tournament. No batsman has been reliable for the Chargers so far. Their fielding has been dismal and costing them matches.
Pune recently won their first game after seven consecutive defeats. They have managed to get Sourav Ganguly in their squad and are likely to be all geared up for the game.
Pitch condition
Built in 2004, the Rajiv Gandhi International stadium has a flat pitch and a well-covered outfield. It has hosted all the three seasons of the IPL. Being the Chargers’ home ground, it has aided them in their IPL campaign.
Last word
Since the two teams are not under pressure to qualify for the play-offs, the competition may be bland. The crowd is likely to have little interest in the game, however, there may be some thrilling performances from the star players.
Tags: