By topping the group, Royals will avoid fellow IPL side Chennai Super Kings in the semifinals and also get a chance to play their last-four stage match at home
Having sealed their place in the semis, Rahul Dravid-led Rajasthan Royals would look to grab the top spot in the table when they take on Kiwi team Otago Volts in their final Group match of the Champions League Twenty20 on Tuesday. By topping the group, Royals will avoid fellow IPL side Chennai Super Kings in the semifinals and also get a chance to play their last-four stage match at home.
But Otago Volts know that a win would ensure smooth passage in the last-four stage and that will eventually knock out 2011 champions, Mumbai Indians. Rajasthan Royals’ thumping nine-wicket victory over Perth Scorchers has again proved that they are the master of the conditions at home. Despite skipper Rahul Dravid failing in previous two matches, their batting looks solid with Ajinkya Rahane, Sanju Samson, Shane Watson, Stuart Binny and Brad Hodge firing all cylinders.
The bowling also looks tidy with James Faulkner and Kevon Cooper, among the wickets they have more options and variety at their disposal with spinner Pravin Tambe leading the wicket tally. On the other hand, Otago Volts are confident of putting up a good show and their confidence will be high after their thrilling victory over Highveld Lions.
Volts’ never-say-die attitude and attacking strategy has helped them qualify for the main event and this may worry skipper Rahul Dravid.
