The highly anticipated opening match of this year’s Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to take place on Saturday at Eden Gardens. In an electrifying contest, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will lock horns with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). While all eyes will naturally be on Virat Kohli, one of the most celebrated cricketers globally, five other players from both teams deserve close attention. Let’s take a look at these standout cricketers.
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1. Ajinkya Rahane – The Experienced Leader
KKR’s decision to bring Ajinkya Rahane at the last moment of the IPL auction turned heads. Known for his prowess in red-ball cricket, the 36-year-old Mumbai batsman has been out of India’s Test squad for a while. With no team initially showing interest in him, KKR secured his services for a modest sum of ₹1.5 crore.
Interestingly, Rahane has played for KKR before and now takes on the role of captain for the first time in the IPL. His recent performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy was remarkable, where he amassed 469 runs in eight innings at an average of 58.62 and an astonishing strike rate of 164.56, including five half-centuries. As KKR’s leader, he is expected to be crucial in guiding his team.
2. Venkatesh Iyer – The Explosive All-Rounder
With Shreyas Iyer absent from the squad, KKR’s middle order heavily depends on Venkatesh Iyer. Though he was a strong contender for the captaincy, he ultimately assumed the role of vice-captain. The 30-year-old all-rounder has been a vital part of KKR since 2021 and is favoured by head coach Chandrakant Pandit.
Initially released by KKR, he was repurchased for ₹23.75 crore, making him the most expensive player for the franchise this season. His ability to play aggressive innings and contribute effectively with the ball makes him a player to watch.
3. Varun Chakravarthy – The Spin Sensation
Varun Chakravarthy’s rise to fame in Indian cricket has been remarkable. After his stellar performance in the Champions Trophy, where he took five wickets against New Zealand in the group stage, cricket enthusiasts have taken a keen interest in his skills.
A key bowler for KKR since 2020, the Tamil Nadu leg-spinner played a pivotal role in their championship-winning campaign last season. With KKR investing ₹12 crore to retain him, expectations are high for him to deliver yet another outstanding season. He remains one of the most anticipated players in the opening match.
4. Phil Salt – The Game-Changer for RCB
England’s wicketkeeper-batter Phil Salt will be a significant attraction in the first match. Well-acquainted with the Eden Gardens pitch, Salt was instrumental in KKR’s victories last season, forming a formidable opening partnership with Sunil Narine.
However, in a surprising turn of events, RCB acquired Salt for ₹11.5 crore in the recent auction. Now, he faces his former team in the season opener. With his explosive batting style, he has the potential to turn the game around single-handedly.
5. Rajat Patidar – RCB’s New Captain
RCB, like KKR, will also have a new captain leading the side. After notable names like Faf du Plessis, Rajat Patidar was given the leadership role in Bengaluru. Initially bought for ₹20 lakh in 2021, his value skyrocketed to ₹11 crore this season due to his consistent performances.
The 31-year-old has played three Test matches and one ODI but has yet to leave a significant mark on the international stage. In the IPL, however, he has been a reliable performer for RCB, scoring 799 runs in 27 matches at an impressive average of 34.73 and a strike rate of 158.84. With one century and seven half-centuries under his belt, all eyes will be on Patidar as he leads RCB in pursuit of their maiden IPL title.
IPL 2024: The Battle for Supremacy
The IPL, now in its 18th edition since its inception in 2008, is one of the most prestigious T20 leagues globally. A total of 10 teams are competing for the coveted title. KKR, the defending champions, have won the IPL three times, while Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings hold the record with five titles each.
On the other hand, franchises like RCB, Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings, and Lucknow Super Giants are still searching for their first IPL trophy. As the Kolkata vs. Bengaluru match kicks off the tournament, cricket enthusiasts can expect an enthralling encounter filled with excitement and high-voltage action.
Stay tuned as these five cricketers, alongside Virat Kohli, aim to make a lasting impact in this season-opening showdown!
