Rajasthan Royals predicted XI against KKR: Tactical change expected against Kolkata Knight Riders

Royals are currently eighth on the points table and need to win all their remaining matches in order to stand any chance of qualifying for the playoffs.

Rajasthan Royals will be looking to bounce back from their loss against Delhi Capitals when they take on struggling Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Thursday.

File image of Rajasthan Royals side (AFP)

Royals, placed eighth in the points and in need to win their remaining four matches in order to have any chance of qualifying for the playoffs, will be boosted by Ajinkya Rahane’s form. Rahane, removed from captaincy, scored a magnificent hundred in their last game against Delhi Capitals.

Royals lost the game but Rahane’s show was encouraging to say the least. Royals will be without Jos Buttler once again and this will be also be the last match for Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer.

Archer and Stokes will join the England squad for World Cup. Archer is not part of the 15-member contingent but has made it to the England limited-overs’ squad for the Pakistan ODI series.

“We have not been able to capitalise on the key moments. That has gone on our way and hence we have found ourselves on losing side. It’s for us to stay positive and look to win, it’s only by that we can make the playoffs. It’s crucial that we concentrate on winning,” Stuart Binny said ahead of the match.

Rajasthan Royals are not in a position to make a lot of challenges to their squad but Liam Livingstone is expected to replace Ashton Turner in the player XI. Turner had a disappointing start to his season and with three golden ducks in this year’s IPL, he looks destined to lose his spot in the team.

Rajasthan Royals Predicted XI: Ajinkya Rahane, Sanju Samson, Steve Smith, Liam Livingstone, Ben Stokes, Riyan Parag, Stuart Binny, Jofra Archer, Shreyas Gopal, Dhawal Kulkarni, Jaydev Unadkat

(With agency inputs)