IPL play-offs: In-form DC Aims To Upset CSK

We have entered the penultimate stage of the IPL 2021. The crucial playoffs will begin tonight with the 1st qualifier match between Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings. While the former enjoys a 100% win record against CSK this season, the latter had beaten Delhi in the playoffs a couple of times in the past.

Delhi has been one of the most consistent teams in the last few years. They have continued supreme form this year too, even in the absence of captain Shreyas Iyer during the first leg of the tournament. Rishabh Pant led the team well and made it gain the top position of the points table.

However, Delhi always fumbled in the playoffs. The poor playoffs track record may worry them now as well. Moreover, Delhi is coming off from a tight defeat against Royal Challengers Bangalore. The team is waiting for the recovery of all-rounder Marcus Stoinis but there is no clarity if he plays the match or not.

On the flip side, MS Dhoni’s Chennai Super Kings is coming up with more worries. The three-time champion side lost its last three consecutive games in the league stage. CSK also lost to Delhi twice this season.

Due to the unavailability of Sam Curran, CSK may go with Dwayne Bravo this match as well. It has to be seen who among Suresh Raina and Robin Uthappa will get a chance to play.

Going by the playoff record, CSK looks like favourites. But going by the current form, Delhi may upset the South Indian franchise for the third time this season.