In the last 10 matches played at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, teams batting first have had a significant advantage, winning 8 out of 10 matches. The average first innings score in these matches was 185.4 runs, with the winning first-innings score averaging slightly higher at 192 runs. Teams have been particularly aggressive in the powerplay overs, averaging 56 runs, while maintaining a steady scoring rate of 53.7 runs in the death overs.
Pitch report
The Hyderabad wicket has proven to be a paradise for batters at the start of IPL 2024, offering favourable conditions conducive to high-scoring encounters. Batsmen have relished the opportunity to capitalize on the true bounce and even pace, resulting in exhilarating contests with towering totals.
However, when Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) hosted Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the Hyderabad wicket took on a different character. It revealed its unpredictability, challenging both batsmen and bowlers alike with its variable behaviour, turning what was anticipated to be another run-fest into a more nuanced and strategic battle.
Fantasy value from pitch report
1) The Hyderabad wicket, known for its even bounce and true pace, typically favours batsmen at the start of IPL 2024. With the pitch offering little assistance to bowlers, selecting top-order batsmen who can capitalize on the favourable batting conditions early in the innings could yield high fantasy points. Look for batsmen with a track record of scoring big on flat tracks.
2) Despite its reputation as a batter-friendly surface, the Hyderabad wicket can throw surprises, especially when hosting specific matchups like SRH against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. In such contests, bowlers who can exploit any hint of unpredictability in the pitch and adapt their bowling strategy accordingly become valuable fantasy picks. Consider selecting bowlers with variations and the ability to thrive in challenging conditions.
Probable XIs
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH): Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, Mayank Agarwal, Nitish Reddy, Heinrich Klaasen(wk), Glenn Phillips, Abdul Samad, Shahbaz Ahmed, Pat Cummins, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat/Umran Malik.
Impact player: T Natarajan
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG): KL Rahul(c), Quinton de Kock, Marcus Stoinis, Nicholas Pooran, Deepak Hooda, Ayush Badoni, Krunal Pandya, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohsin Khan, Naveen-ul-Haq, Yash Thakur.
Impact player: Arshin Kulkarni
Key players
1) Travis Head (SRH): IPL 2024 Stats: 444 runs in 10 matches
Travis Head has been a formidable force for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in IPL 2024, amassing an impressive total of 444 runs in just 10 matches. The left-handed Australian batsman’s explosive batting style, combined with his ability to build innings and accelerate when required, has made him a top fantasy pick, consistently delivering substantial points with his consistent performances at the crease. (Here is the updated IPL 2024 Orange Cap standings)
2) KL Rahul (LSG): IPL 2024 Stats: 431 runs in 11 matches
KL Rahul has been a standout performer for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2024, amassing an impressive total of 431 runs in just 11 matches. The stylish right-handed batsman’s consistency and ability to anchor the innings while also accelerating when needed have made him a reliable fantasy pick, capable of delivering substantial points with his batting abilities.
3) Pat Cummins (SRH): IPL 2024 Stats: 13 wickets in 11 matches
Pat Cummins has proven to be a pivotal asset for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in IPL 2024, showcasing his bowling prowess with a commendable tally of 13 wickets in 11 matches. The Australian fast bowler’s ability to consistently trouble batsmen and pick up crucial breakthroughs has made him a valuable fantasy pick, offering the potential for significant points in each match he plays. (Here is the updated IPL 2024 Purple Cap standings)
Fantasy team
Wicketkeeper: KL Rahul (c), Nicholas Pooran, Heinrich Klaasen (vc)
Batsmen: Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma
All-rounders: Nitish Reddy, Marcus Stoinis
Bowlers: Mohsin Khan, Yash Thakur, T Natarajan, Pat Cummins