IPL 2021: Upbeat Kolkata Knight Riders square off with Punjab Kings

Punjab Kings` Ravi Bishnoi and Kolkata Knight Riders` Venkatesh Iyer. Pics/PTI

IPL's newest sensation Venkatesh Iyer's footwork or the lack of it will be put through a stern test against the sharp googlies bowled by Ravi Bishnoi when Kolkata Knight Riders square off against a beleaguered Punjab Kings here on Friday.

Knights all-rounder Venkatesh has caught everyone's attention with his fearless strokeplay against genuine pace but Bishnoi's wrist spin has troubled the best in the business during the last two editions.

It will be the biggest match-up in the game, which is very important for KL Rahul's Punjab Kings if they have any intentions of staying afloat in the competition.

Rahul had admitted after the defeat against Mumbai Indians that his team have not played well under pressure and need to put up a better fight.

The poor show from the middle-order has also hurt them badly as only Rahul (422 runs) and his opening partner Mayank Agarwal (332 runs) have found some form.

Punjab also have problems aplenty in the bowling department with none save for Bishnoi (9 wickets economy rate 6.16) have been able to trouble the opposition batsmen.

Check out all the latest news and updates on IPL 2021

This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliabilitsy and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever