IPL 2012

Match 22, Kings XI Vs KKR, 18 April

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Scoreboard: http://www.espncricinfo.com/indian-premier-league-2012/engine/match/548328.html

Result: KKR Won

Favorite team: KKR with 66p

Pre-match review:

Teams in contention don't afford to lose as they don't have much luxury to relax for couple of games and be on the top later. Both the teams have their own demons. Knight Riders are traveling to Mohali, after getting unlucky on the home turf twice, to wipe the tag of under performers off. Kings XI, the most consistent team as far as the worst opening partnership and aggregate runs of highest run-scorer in the team are concerned, on the other hand wishes to reassure fans that their last win at Eden was not a fluke.

For firepower and form, no team is worse than other. One team has more recognized names, while other is on the winning streak. In IPL, change is the only thing which is constant. The team in the form has more to fear, as they will fall like a peck of cards when breached. And the team with recognized names is already a bit demoralized due to the recent outcomes.

So this game will be won by that team which has more confidence in themselves and who thinks that they can lift the cup, be it this season or any season. I am going with Knight Riders on this. As I think they are slightly diverse and better in the bowling department than their rivals.

Final word from editor: ... I am going with Knight Riders on this. As I think they are slightly diverse and better in the bowling department than their rivals.

Who will win Kings XI Vs KKR? 18 April

  • Kolkata Knigt Riders (53% Votes)
  • KIngs XI Punjab (48% Votes)

Match 21, RCB Vs Warriors, 17 April

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Scoreboard: http://www.espncricinfo.com/indian-premier-league-2012/engine/match/548327.html

Results: RCB Won

Favorite team: Royal Challenger Banglore with 65p

Pre-match review: 

This fixture propels me to ask this: Who was no-hoper at the start of this season and who's no-hoper now? This is the question which will trouble that lavish guy from down south who has an aviation company, successful brewery and an IPL team in his pocket.

If we talk about form, then yes. Challengers have little to challenge and warriors have every reason to wage war on any adversary. But if we see the players both teams have, anyone will be a bit afraid to bet against Challengers. Moreover, Warriors are a bit sluggish in their batting approach and they hardly put 140+ on the scoreboard. Also, they have a growing concern in the form of the doubtful bowling action of Marlon Samuels and the out of form Ganguly. Things will be different if Challengers bat first and put a formidable total. The change in typical Chinnaswamy pitch in the second inning will add to the woes of Warriors.

All and all, this will be a contest to watch out for. Though Challengers are suffering from many issues, lack of fifth bowler to highlight, I'll still go with them due to sheer talent they have in the store. Whichever way match goes, it will be worth the time if Warriors show fighting spirit which I am sure they have in abundance.

Final word from editor: ...Though Challengers are suffering from many issues, lack of fifth bowler to highlight, I'll still go with them due to sheer talent they have in the store.

Who will win RCB Vs Warriors? 17 April

  • Pune Warriors (38% Votes)
  • Royal Challenger Banglore (62% Votes)

Match 20, Royals Vs Chargers, 17 April

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Scoreboard: http://www.espncricinfo.com/indian-premier-league-2012/engine/match/548326.html

Results: Rajasthan Royals Won

Faourite Team: Deccan Chargers with 78p

The team in top form has to play very ordinarily to lose this match. Well, in IPL, one can not be sure of anything. But, this is Jaipur. And Deccan has one of the poor bowling attacks in this season with the exception of Dale Steyn of course.

Having said that, Chargers still look good in the batting department. IPL match can be won by one or two big innings. And the likes of Sangakkara, White, Christian and Dhawan are capable of doing that. Even Amit Mishra can provide the late fireworks, if required.

As far as comparison with Chargers' northern opponent goes, I would still go with Royals. The tide is on their side and they've reliable batsmen to bank on. Royals don't have big names in their bowling cadet. But, they know how to bowl in the right areas and how to play like a team. The heat is on and Royals have sufficient potential to cool it off.

Who will win Royal vs Charger? 17 April

  • Deccan Chargers (63% Votes)
  • Rajasthan Royals (40% Votes)