When Kolkata Knight Riders play Rajasthan Royals at home in back-to-back match of IPL 2012, revenge would rule their mind. But, revenge is more of a need than want, considering their 2 losses in first three matches. Royals have already won the first one and would look to set records straight by winning, as KKR won both the matches in last edition.
History
They have played one of the two ties recorded in IPL history. Considering the talent and money factor, KKR has a lot, while RR is relying on sheer extraodrinary performances from a pool of young talented guns. The model turned successful in 2008, but since then they have been more often not so good.
Head-to-Head RR 5-3 KKR
2008
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RR def KKR by 45 runs
RR def KKR by 6 Wickets
2009
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RR def KKR in Super Over (After tie)
KKR def RR by 4 Wickets
2010
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RR def KKR by 34 Runs
KKR def RR by 8 Wickets
2011
2012
- RR def KKR by 22 runs
2008 Performance
On their way to championship RR won record 13 matches and lost just 3. KKR failed to impress despite 6 Wins, 7 Losses and one no result.
2009 Performance
South Africa did not suit them and they managed just 5 wins, Lost 8, and 1 was abandoned. KKR finished at the bottom with just 3 wins, 10 losses and one abandoned match.
2010 Performance
RR again failed to enter knockout and could win only 6 and Lost 8 matches. KKR had a better season with 7 Wins 7 Losses, still failed to break into knockout stage.
2011 Performance
KKR reached the semifinal for the first time winning 8 and losing 7. RR on the other hand could finish 6th with 6 wins and 7 losses.
Overall in IPL
RR has a positive win loss ratio, making them one of the successful teams of IPL. They have Won 34, Lost 28, and two matches were abandoned. With 27 Wins, 34 Losses, 2 No Result KKR has the second worst record among the IPL teams.
Who Will Win Today!
Eden Garden’s full house presence failed to inspire the KKR team against DD. Later Royals also surprised them. But, they managed to get better off against RCB. Being considered having one of the strongest squad, KKR need the win more, specially at home.
They have the ammunition, but are unable to fire together. Gambhir, Manoj Tiwary and Bisla has already been successful with bat. Other batsmen, specially Yusuf Pathan need to gear up. Their bowlers pulled up an easy victory against RCB defending a decent total.
Rajasthan Royals have surprised all by winning the first two match convincingly and then putting up a strong show in the defeat at Mumbai, against tournament’s strongest bowling unit of Mumbai Indians. If without Watson and Hodge they could go for a big chase, other teams would be scared to even imagine what will be their strength when both join the team.
As a captain, Dravid has looked more settled than Gambhir. Probably, due to lack of expectation. Considering the team factor, the all round firing Rajasthan Royals appear the favorite again.
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