The first qualifier of IPL 2023 will be played between Gujarat Titans and Rajasthan Royals at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata this evening. GT won 10 matches out of 14. The team finished first in the points table with +0.316. RR won 9 matches out of 14 and finished second in the points table with a run rate of +0.298.
The team of Gujarat lost their last match to Royal Challengers, while Rajasthan will go to play the qualifiers after defeating Chennai. After reaching the playoffs, Gujarat Titans captain Hardik Pandya won the toss and elected to bat in a few matches to try his hand at preparation. However, the team could not win those matches.
In such a situation, if Gujarat has to bat first during the playoffs, then the situation can be difficult for them. The batsmen of Gujarat are unable to hang so many runs on the board, as many runs are defended by the bowlers while bowling in the second innings.
GT vs RR: Pitch Report
The Eden Garden's track is always known as perfect for the batters. Also, the small size of the ground helps the batters there. There is always some assistance for pace too in the initial innings period. The pitch gives good bounce and pace to bat on. The weather forecast for today is not too good. Hence toss winning team will defiantly want to field first if the Duckworth Lewis method comes into place.
GT vs RR: Weather Forecast
Kolkata is located in the eastern state of Bengal. The weather in Kolkata remains hot and humid during the summers that span from March to May. But since the last week of May, we can see the arrival of Pre Mansoon here. The weather model indicates not a good forecast for the game of cricket on the 24th of May 2023.
Temperature – 33/27
Humidity-70%
Wind – 13 km/h
Chances of Rain – 38%
GT vs RR: Head to Head
Gujarat Titans defeated Rajasthan Royals the only time they played each other earlier in the season.
Rajasthan team is showing balance
Rajasthan Royals is looking for a strong team for the first time after season one. They have surprised all the opposing teams with their game. Their strategy of sending R Ashwin to beat the first town was constantly questioned. However, the management stood by its decision. As a result, Ashwin gave his team victory by scoring an unbeaten 40 off 23 balls against Chennai Super Kings.
Suffice it to say that Rajasthan's batting order is looking strong. Jos Buttler has not been able to perform like the first part in Phase Two of the season. However, he can play big innings in big matches.
Captain Sanju Samson was not selected for India vs South Africa T20I series. In such a situation, he can answer the selectors with a great performance.
