Preview: RCB vs RR

What

It’s the tenth game of IPL 2010, as Royal Challengers Bangalore play hosts to the Rajasthan Royals at home in Bengaluru. RCB, coming off a great win against the Kings XI Punjab, would be high on confidence and will be looking to extend their winning streak.

When

Thursday, March 18, 8pm. The second one-match day of the IPL 2010 would hope to live up to the Kumble versus Warne hype.

Where

M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bangalore. Royal Challengers Bangalore will enjoy the support of local fans. The first team of IPL 2010 to chase a target of over 200, RCB has shown that batting is their strength and in Robin Uthappa and Jacques Kallis, they have two superb talents in great form.

The weather should be nice and cool. A little dew could be expected as the city has a history of unexpected rains during the summers.

The Protagonists

Anil Kumble, who is leading a pack of challengers on a high after the previous encounter, would look to keep up the good work. Kallis, who currently holds the prestigious Orange Cap, would look to add some more to his tally.

His counterpart, the charismatic Shane Warne, would expect his teammates to bounce back after a terrible start in the tournament. The opening season’s champions will be looking for some inspiration as their captain too has not been at the top of his game.

What next?

A win here for the Royal Challengers can take them right up to the second position on the points table which will only make the team management and coach happier. On the other hand, last placed Rajasthan Royals would like to get their first points of IPL 2010 and also move up from the last position to somewhere more respectable.