The anticipation has ended as we now enter the final stages of IPL 2024, with Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad poised to vie for the championship at M Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
These two standout teams of the league phase showcased their supremacy in the playoffs to secure a spot in the grand finale. KKR, two-time champions, maintained simplicity in their approach this season, delivering consistent results with a collective style of cricket. Conversely, Sunrisers displayed a fearless brand of cricket, setting historic high scores on multiple occasions throughout the tournament.
However, the final will present a unique challenge, as both teams will feel the pressure to add another trophy to their collection. While they have seasoned players in their ranks to offer guidance and calm nerves, the dynamics shift once they step onto the field.
Prior to the season kick-off, eyebrows were raised at KKR and SRH’s hefty spending on Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins respectively during the IPL auction. Critics and fans questioned the rationale behind splurging over 20 crores each on the Australian pacers. Yet, their on-field performances silenced the sceptics. Starc initially struggled to find his rhythm in the IPL after a hiatus but came through in the crucial moments, delivering a stellar performance with the ball in the qualifier 1. Cummins emerged as an inspirational leader for Sunrisers, leading from the front and showcasing why he’s regarded as one of the premier captains in the cricketing world.
Hyderabad secured their third IPL final berth by defeating Rajasthan Royals by 36 runs in the last qualifier in Chennai. However, this victory followed a decisive eight-wicket loss to Kolkata in the first playoff in Ahmedabad. SRH clinched their only IPL title in 2016 under the leadership of another Australian, David Warner. Now, the focus turns to replicating that success.
Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer’s captaincy has garnered praise this season, displaying composure while leading the team. The return of Gautam Gambhir as a mentor for KKR has had a significant impact, transforming the team’s atmosphere. Gambhir’s strategic decisions, such as promoting Sunil Narine to the opening slot and fostering a flexible batting line-up capable of adapting to various conditions, contributed to KKR’s journey to the final with just three losses along the way.
