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The Indian Premier League (IPL) has entered its thrilling final stages, with four teams advancing to the playoffs after months of intense competition. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Rajasthan Royals (RR), and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have secured their spots in the knockout phase after a gruelling caravan of 70 matches.
In Qualifier 1, table-toppers Kolkata will clash with second-placed Hyderabad at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Tuesday, while Rajasthan and Bangalore will battle it out in the Eliminator on Wednesday at the same venue. The winner of Qualifier 1 will secure a spot in the title clash in Chennai on May 6, while the losing team will face the winner of the Eliminator for a chance to reach the finals.
Before the action-packed IPL week kicks off, let’s shine the spotlight on five players who are expected to light up the knockout matches:
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Virat Kohli
The star Indian batsman has been in sensational form since last year’s ODI World Cup, where he emerged as the highest run-scorer in the tournament’s history. Kohli has continued his stellar performance in the IPL, leading the batting charts with 708 runs in 14 matches, including five half-centuries and a century. He remains the linchpin of RCB’s batting lineup and has played a pivotal role in guiding his team to the playoffs.
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Abhishek Sharma
The 23-year-old opener has showcased immense potential to become a key player for the Indian T20 team in the future. Sharma has been in scintillating form at the top of the order, amassing 467 runs in 13 games for Hyderabad. With three half-centuries to his name this season and a blistering strike rate of 209.41, he poses a significant threat to opposition bowlers. KKR will need a solid strategy to dismiss him early in the crucial playoff encounter.
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Riyan Parag
Parag is enjoying his best IPL season since making his debut in 2019. The middle-order batsman has accumulated 531 runs in 13 matches for Rajasthan, including four half-centuries. He has been a consistent performer for the franchise, delivering crucial knocks throughout the season. Parag’s role becomes even more crucial for RR following the absence of Jos Buttler in the top order due to national commitments.
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Sunil Narine
The West Indies all-rounder has once again demonstrated his ability to single-handedly sway the momentum in any team’s favour. Narine has made significant contributions with both bat and ball this season, scoring 461 runs, including a century and three half-centuries, and picking up 15 wickets in 13 matches. His versatility makes him a potent weapon for any team in the playoffs.
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Pat Cummins
The World Cup-winning captain has seamlessly transitioned his leadership skills to the IPL arena, guiding SRH to the playoffs in his debut season with the franchise. Cummins’ astute on-field decisions and tactical acumen have been instrumental in SRH’s success this season. With 15 wickets in 13 matches, Cummins is poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming playoffs.a