GT vs RR: You'll Have To Take On Their Opening Bowlers To Beat Them- Brad Hogg Says Of RR's Chances In IPL 2022 Qualifier 1

Former Australian bowler Brad Hogg thinks the Rajasthan Royals (RR) top-order would have to battle with the Gujarat Titans’ (GT) opening bowlers to be successful.

At Eden Gardens in Kolkata, the two teams will kick off the knockout round of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022.

With the new ball, Mohammad Shami has proved crucial for the Gujarat-based team. With consistent speed, he has squeezed it from the pitch, bagging 18 wickets in the competition. In the fast bowling section, Lockie Ferguson and Yash Dayal have been quite helpful.

Brad Hogg claimed on his YouTube channel that RR hitters may have to compel Pandya to move towards Ferguson and Rashid Khan during the powerplay phase:

“To defeat GT, you must first defeat their opening bowlers. Force Rashid Khan and Lockie Ferguson into the powerplay. Otherwise, those two will be in charge of the middle innings, which is where GT has controlled the game” Brad Hogg Said.

‘Hardik Pandya is a strong leader for the Gujarat Titans’: Brad Hogg

Despite just bowling 24 overs in 13 games, GT captain Hardik Pandya is a feasible alternative with the ball. Brad Hogg praised the all-rounder for his management so far in the competition, saying:

“Pandya is an excellent leader for GT. Since learning that they will enter the playoffs, he has put them in increasingly challenging situations, making life more difficult for them and preparing them for the upcoming strong competition. This, in my opinion, is what makes them favorites.”

Later tonight, Hardik Pandya and Sanju Samson will lead their first playoff games. The winner of Qualifier 1 will compete in the IPL 2022 final.

Also Read: Kane Williamson Set To Join New Zealand Team Ahead Of Test Series Against England