IPL 2021: Brad Hogg Points Out The Weak Middle Order As A Liability For Both DC And KKR

Former Australia leg-spinner Brad Hogg believes that both Delhi Capitals (DC) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have a weak middle-order which could prove to be a decisive factor. DC and KKR are up against each other in Qualifier 2 in Sharjah on Wednesday.

Both teams have tried out different sets of players to fill the middle-order void but it hasn’t worked out for them so far. Neither KKR nor DC has a dependable finisher and at a low-scoring ground like Sharjah, every run in the death overs will matter.

“Both teams have got dominant opening batters, also they have got a prominent middle order but where they fall apart is in the No.6 batter. The last time DC did not play a No.6 batter, they played an extra bowler, which I thought was a big mistake. KKR, their No 6 batsman is Eoin Morgan, has not got any form of late and has been struggling. He’s hardly made a run all tournament and on the big occasion, he might come of age,” Hogg said.

“Avesh Khan is the advantage in bowling for DC” – Brad Hogg

Young Indian pacer Avesh Khan has been one of the best bowlers in the tournament. He has taken 23 wickets so far and is only behind purple cap holder, Harshal Patel, who has 32 wickets. As for KKR, they will be depending on their foreign bowlers to deliver.

“Both teams have got prominent bowlers. DC have extreme pace with Rabada and Nortje and they have two quality spinners. But Avesh Khan is where they have got the advantage in the bowling department, he is a good Indian quick and slightly better than Mavi. KKR have three dominant spinners, they are more versatile than the DC spinners,” Hogg added.

KKR has made a big turnaround in the UAE leg and will look to continue its momentum. As for DC, they need to regroup after a last-over loss to CSK.

Also Read – KKR vs DC: Match Preview – IPL 2021 Qualifier 2