Rajasthan Royals have begun their journey in the 13th edition of the Indian Premier League. Chennai Super Kings captain MS Dhoni has won two tosses in a row so far in the IPL 2020 and opted to bowl first both times. Dhoni has clarified that dew is one of the biggest factors behind this decision. CSK started their IPL 2020 campaign with a win against Mumbai Indians on Saturday with Ambati Rayudu being awarded the Man of the Match title. However, Rayudu won’t be a part of CSK’s playing XI against RR and Ruturaj Gaikwad will replace him.
“We will bowl first. Dew is one of the factor. What we have seen is consistent amount of dew all over, whenever there is a question mark when it comes to dew you want to chase. I feel this is one venue where the wicket will be entirely different compared to the other two venues. People will prepare differently for the matches over here. As of now looks good but it will slow down as the match progresses. I don’t know how hard the surface is underneath. We have one change – Rayudu is not 100 percent, so Rituraj comes in his place,” Dhoni said at the toss.
“Adaptability is the key in the shortest format. You need to quickly judge what length to bowl on that particular surface and to that particular batsmen. Those are things we need to do, other than that we won’t be the best fielding side, we will be a safe fielding side.”
Ahead of the toss, newest Rajasthan Royals recruits Robin Uthappa, David Miller, Tom Curran and U-19 star Yashasvi Jaiswal received their caps from different players of the franchise. Captain Steve Smith has recovered from his concussion and is confident of his young squad despite Jos Buttler’s absence. India’s U-19 star Yashasvi Jaiswal also makes his debut in the IPL.
“Probably would have bowled as well. The dew factor as MS just pointed out will come into the game. Bat first and hopefully we do it well. Took a little bit longer than I would have liked. I had my first hit yesterday and it went well. Myself, Tom Curran, Archer and Miller. I have been involved with the Royals since 2014, it has been a while with a few years off there,” Smith said.
“We have got a good group, good bunches of guys, lot of talent and we are excited about this year. I have heard a lot (about the youngsters) in the last few weeks. The boys have been trying exceptionally well here and been doing a great job. So it is time to bring out to the middle and hopefully we can see some really good talent taking off.”
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