Today, all eyes are on the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad as Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) prepare to clash with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the highly anticipated first qualifier of IPL 2024. These two franchises have been the epitome of entertainment in the league, showcasing explosive batting line-ups that have consistently pushed the boundaries of T20 cricket.
As the stage is set for this monumental clash, fans are eagerly anticipating a display of skill and power from both sides. With KKR’s unparalleled form and SRH’s determined pursuit, the match promises to be a spectacle of high-octane cricketing action.
The stakes are high in today’s contest, as the winner will earn a direct spot in the IPL 2024 final. Meanwhile, the losing team will have another chance in Qualifier 2, where they will face the winner of the Eliminator match. As the final week of the tournament unfolds, fans are eagerly anticipating thrilling cricketing action. However, there is a lingering concern about potential weather disruptions, a recurring issue in recent matches.
What happens if the game is washed out by rain?
Rain has affected three matches over the past week, but fans can breathe a sigh of relief as a Reserve Day has been allocated for all playoff matches this season, including the final. As per Rule 13.7.3 in the IPL 2024 Match Playing Conditions, an extra 120 minutes are allocated to complete a match affected by rain. This rule applies to league-stage matches as well, but the playoffs also have the Reserve Day provision.
However, managing this provision becomes particularly challenging given the scheduling of the Eliminator between Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru on May 22. Should rain persist on the reserve day, the situation could favor Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), who have 20 points and a Net Run Rate of +1.428, potentially granting them direct entry into the final.
Team form
KKR, despite being table toppers, have not played a match in the last 10 days due to their last two games being washed out. This lack of match practice could be a concern, especially with the absence of Phil Salt as an opener, leaving the team without an opportunity to test their new opening pair.
In contrast, SRH enters the qualifier in red-hot form, having defeated Punjab Kings in their last game. The opening duo of Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head has been exceptional, consistently dominating bowlers during the powerplay and setting a strong foundation for the team.
As SRH and KKR prepare to battle it out in Qualifier 1, fans can expect a high-octane clash with both teams aiming for a direct path to the final.
