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Join UsWith the knockout phase looming over the IPL 2024 group stage, the stakes are higher than ever. On Monday night, the Gujarat Titans (GT) faced elimination due to a washout, unable to secure the crucial two points. Tonight, the Delhi Capitals (DC) face a similar do-or-die scenario as they host the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
Both teams are level on 12 points, but LSG has a game in hand. DC, with their poor net run rate, has a slim chance of reaching the final four. However, a win would also crush LSG’s hopes. A loss would officially eliminate DC and nearly end LSG’s campaign as well.
Here are three bowlers who could significantly impact their teams’ fates by picking up the most wickets:
#3 Naveen-ul-Haq
Afghanistan pacer Naveen-ul-Haq has transitioned from a supporting role in IPL 2023 to leading LSG’s attack due to injuries and form issues within the team. Despite a wicketless performance against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH), Naveen showcased his skills by taking three crucial wickets against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), including Phil Salt, Andre Russell, and Rinku Singh.
The last time LSG faced DC in Lucknow, Naveen dismissed their most in-form batter, Jake Fraser-McGurk. Even though the pitch in Delhi is flat, there’s often a bit of movement in the air that Naveen can exploit. His experience during the ODI World Cup at this venue will be invaluable as he aims to lead LSG’s bowling attack in this critical match.
#2 Khaleel Ahmed
Khaleel Ahmed, DC’s left-arm pacer, impressed in his recent spell against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), despite the team’s loss. He showcased his versatility by picking up key wickets of Dinesh Karthik and Mahipal Lomror at the death with brilliant slower deliveries.
In previous encounters with LSG, Khaleel has bowled impressive spells, dismissing key players like Marcus Stoinis, Devdutt Padikkal, Quinton de Kock, and Nicholas Pooran. At the Arun Jaitley Stadium, he has turned his fortunes around, taking four wickets in the last two games. With 16 wickets in IPL 2024, Khaleel could be DC’s trump card against an LSG lineup struggling in both top and lower orders.
#1 Kuldeep Yadav
Kuldeep Yadav, DC’s lead spinner, is an obvious choice for this list. He was the Player of the Match in the previous encounter against LSG in Lucknow, taking the crucial wickets of KL Rahul, Pooran, and Stoinis for just 20 runs. His overall record against LSG is stellar, with a bowling average of 19.17.
Even on Delhi’s flattest pitches, Kuldeep has consistently taken wickets, including four against one of the best batting lineups in IPL 2024, SRH. His variations in speed and subtle turn make him a formidable challenge for batters. LSG will find Kuldeep to be their biggest obstacle in their quest to advance to the Qualifiers.
As DC and LSG clash in this high-stakes match, the performance of these bowlers could be the key to their team’s survival in the tournament.
