IPL 2021 – Punjab Kings vs Chennai Super Kings Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
When is Punjab Kings vs Chennai Super Kings taking place? Friday 16th April, 2021 – 15:00 (UK)
Where is Punjab Kings vs Chennai Super Kings taking place? Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
Where can I get tickets for Punjab Kings vs Chennai Super Kings? IPL 2021 matches will initially be played without spectators but visit the official IPL website for any further updates
What channel is Punjab Kings vs Chennai Super Kings on? Sky Sports will be televising this match
Where can I stream Punjab Kings vs Chennai Super Kings? Sky Sports subscribers will be able to stream the match live vis the Sky Go website or app
THE TEAM NEWS
PUNJAB KINGS
- Punjab Kings got off to a flying start in their opening game as they beat the Rajasthan Royals by four runs in a thrilling match that contained over 400 runs and produced some major fireworks with the bat.
- The batting looked absolutely formidable with KL Rahul leading the way with a stunning 91 form 50 balls, Deepak Hooda smashing 64 from 28 and Chris Gayle hitting 40 from 28, they registered the highest total in the tournament so far and they will look to continue that form here.
- Big-money overseas star Jhye Richardson will look to improve on a difficult opening game where he was smashed for 55 from his four overs while Mohammed Shami is a fitness concern after he limped off in that match so his participation is in some doubt for this one.
CHENNAI SUPER KINGS
- Chennai Super Kings lost their opening game against Delhi Capitals by seven wickets and they did not get off to a great start after being put into bat as they lost both openers with just seven runs on the board.
- The spotlight will be on Ruturaj Gaikwad and Faf du Plessis once again here to perform much better at the top of the order but they are likely to give them a run of games to build some form in an area that proved troublesome last season too.
- On a good track for batting in Mumbai, their six-hitting was no problem as they registered ten maximums but their ageing team struggles running between the wickets and that remains an area of concern for CSK as they likely name an unchanged team here.
THE PREDICTION
As predicted, Chennai Super Kings lost their opening match and they continue to struggle away from home. They play in Mumbai once again here on what should be a reasonable track for batsmen, and that does not bode well against the Punjab Kings’ fearsome batting line-up. The Kings have several batsmen who are looking in great form at the start of this tournament and unless CSK’s bowlers can improve, they could be in for another tough day. If it comes down to a high-scoring game, the Kings have to be favoured right now. They have one of the best to orders in the tournament and assuming Mohammed Shami is fit, their all-round balance and star quality gives the Kings the edge.
