When will IPL’s most expensive player, Rishabh Pant, return to form? This has become a big question. It remains to be seen if the answer will come on Tuesday when Kolkata Knight Riders and Lucknow Super Giants clash at Eden Gardens Stadium.

This match will be a tough test for Rishabh, both as a captain and a batsman. He will not only have the responsibility of maintaining Lucknow’s momentum after their thrilling 12-run victory over Mumbai, but will also face immense pressure to prove himself as a batsman. Rishabh, who was sold for ₹27 crores in the IPL auction, has scored only 19 runs in the first four matches, raising questions about his high price tag.

On the other hand, after defeating Hyderabad by 80 runs in their last match, Kolkata will be eager to continue their winning streak. So far, the two teams have played five matches against each other, with Lucknow winning three and Kolkata winning two.

‘3V’ Trio to Shine for Kolkata in Next Match

The ‘3V’ — Venkatesh Iyer, Varun Chakraborty, and Vaibhav Arora — will be in focus in the upcoming match. Their excellent performances helped Kolkata defeat Sunrisers Hyderabad by 80 runs in the last match at Eden Gardens.

  • Venkatesh Iyer played a fiery innings of 60 runs
  • Varun Chakraborty and Vaibhav Arora took 3 wickets each

Ajinkya Rahane and Rinku Singh Return to Form

Another positive for Kolkata is the return of captain Ajinkya Rahane and Rinku Singh, both finding form with the bat. Youngster Angkrish Raghuvanshi continues to strengthen the middle order. However, the poor form of Quinton de Kock and Andre Russell is concerning for the team management. It remains to be seen if Rahmatullah Gurbaz gets a chance to play in place of de Kock in the next match.

Lucknow’s Batting and Bowling Improving

Lucknow’s batting and bowling are improving with each match.

  • Nicholas Pooran is in superb form, scoring 201 runs in 4 matches and holding the Orange Cap.
  • Mitchell Marsh has 184 runs in 4 matches
  • Aiden Markram returned to form in the match against Mumbai

Lucknow Looks for Big Innings from David Miller

Lucknow now hopes for a big innings from out-of-form David Miller. Fast bowler Shardul Thakur has taken 7 wickets in 4 matches, while Avesh Khan played a crucial role in the last victory. On Eden’s spinner-friendly pitch, Ravi Bishnoi will be key for Lucknow.