Is Jaydev Unadkat Playing in Today’s Crucial SRH vs RR IPL 2024 Qualifier 2?

Jaydev Unadkat has made a significant comeback in the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) playing XI for their pivotal IPL 2024 Qualifier 2 clash against the Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Friday, May 24. The experienced left-arm pacer replaces all-rounder Shahbaz Ahmed in the lineup, with Ahmed being included among the impact substitutes.

Unadkat, with 103 IPL games under his belt, has taken eight wickets in nine matches this season, albeit at a higher economy rate of 10.46. Having been left out of SRH’s last three games, including a washout against the Gujarat Titans (GT), he will be eager to prove his worth in this high-stakes match.

At the toss, SRH captain Pat Cummins revealed the changes, saying:

“We’ve got Unadkat coming back in the team as well.”

The Sunrisers have also bolstered their batting unit by including Aiden Markram. The South African, known for his handy off-spin, has replaced Vijayakanth Viyaskanth in the playing XI. Cummins further explained:

“Aiden Markram comes in for Vijayakanth.”

RR Opt to Bowl First Against SRH in IPL 2024 Qualifier 2

Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson won the toss and opted to bowl first, considering the conditions at Chepauk. RR fielded an unchanged side following their four-wicket victory against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Eliminator. Samson stated at the toss:

“We would like to bowl first looking at the conditions and what Chepauk offers in the second half.”

The Royals are aiming to reach the finals for the second time in three seasons. They previously lost to the eventual champions GT in the IPL 2022 final.

Meanwhile, Sunrisers Hyderabad are looking to secure a spot in the final after their defeat to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by eight wickets in Qualifier 1. Both teams have one IPL trophy to their name: Shane Warne led RR to victory in the inaugural season in 2008, while David Warner guided SRH to their only title in 2016.

As the anticipation builds, fans are eager to see if Unadkat’s return can tip the scales in SRH’s favor and help them secure a place in the finals.