Sunrisers Hyderabad v Kolkata Knight Riders betting preview: IPL leaders risk imploding on eve of play-offs
Sunrisers Hyderabad were this columns outright tip for glory in the Indian Premier League. A glance at the table suggests were doing okay.
They are top and guaranteed to qualify. So why do we get the feeling they are a busted flush?
If momentum is important in sport – and plenty would argue that it is – Sunrisers have gambled with theirs at a crucial time.
More: Cricket
With the play-offs a game away, Sunrisers have now lost their last two. Both defeats have come with qualification already assured.
On Saturday they take on Kolkata Knight Riders. Sunrisers do not need to win. Kolkata do. Could Sunrisers go into the business end having lost three straight?
Advertisement Advertisement
The problem they have is that they have allowed their intensity to drop. It can be difficult to get it back.
This has been evident in their bowling performances and team selection. Against Chennai Super Kings, their rivals for top spot, they looked well set for another win having posted 179.
Sunrisers could defend Trump against misogyny. But not this time. They were flapping and flailing and were beaten by eight wickets.
Against Bangalore they were similarly profligate. They conceded a massive 218. Basil Thampi conceded 70 off his four overs.
He was a replacement for the metronomic Bhuv Kumar, who was rested. Thampi conceded 19 off his last over.
This begs the question: why on earth was he bowling? The answer: Sunrisers had no-one else. They have five bowlers and thats it.
Kane Williamson could have bowled an over to take the pressure off. That he didnt adds to the feeling theyre on auto pilot.
The bookmakers cant split Sunrisers and Kolkata. They should be able to given the formguide.
We said the same about the clash with Bangalore, who were, unnaturally, favourites. Faith is disappearing fast.
More: Cricket
Kolkata are even money with Betfred, yet are jollies pretty much everywhere else.
On the outright, Sunrisers are second-favourites at 9-4 (Bet365) behind Chennai at 70-4. Bangalore, who are on a surge for the play-offs, are expected to pip Kolkata. They are best at 13-2 with Boylesports.
MORE: England will smash India unless worlds best Virat Kohli turns up – Graeme Swann
Advertisement Advertisement
[contf]
[contfnew]
METRO
[contfnewc]
[contfnewc]
