Kolkata: Rejuvenated by a World Cup call-up, Dinesh Karthik would be eager to impress India captain Virat Kohli and also arrest the Kolkata Knight Riders’ three game losing streak, when they lock horns with Royal Challengers Bangalore in an IPL clash here on Friday.
It won’t be easy for KKR with Andre Russell doubtful for the RCB game after injuring his left shoulder during practice at the Eden Gardens on Wednesday.
Russell, who is KKR’s leading run-getter and main hope, was hit by a bouncer from a net bowler during training and was seen writhing in pain as the support staff rushed to the ground.
It is the same left shoulder where Russell was hit by a Harshal Patel delivery during KKR’s match against Delhi Capitals at the Kotla.
Although team sources said, there was no major fracture or dislocation, it remains to be seen whether the big-hitting West Indies all-rounder is fit for Friday’s clash.
Kohli has his own problems as far as RCB is concerned with the team all but out of the competition if they lose on Friday. Rock-bottom in the table with just one win from eight matches, RCB just haven’t been in the groove this year. From the remaining six games, they would have to win all to give themselves any chance of a playoff berth.
Kohli has also not led from the front, cutting a forlorn figure on the field more often than not and also failing to fire with the bat.
The team’s main problem has been their bowling which has been poor to say the least, except for Yuzvendra Chahal. In KKR, they would face an opponent hungry to return to winning ways after losing back-to-back home games.
Kohli would want AB de Villiers and Moeen Ali to continue their good form besides him getting back among runs. (IANS)
