JAIPUR: If there is one thing Rajasthan Royals would like to rectify this season, it is the inconsistent showing from their middle order, which cost them a few games last season.
This area has over the years looked fragile for the Sanju Samson led side. With Rovman Powell, the West Indies T20 captain, being brought into the squad, Royals will look to plug the gap. Powell will join compatriot Shimron Hetymer along with Dhruv Jurel and Riyan Parag in the middle.
As the Royals open their campaign against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the SMS Stadium here on Sunday, their captain Samson is banking on Powell’s experience while backing the Indian youngsters. “We are lucky to have the experience of someone like Rovman Powel,” he said.
Royals can take immense pride in the way Yashasvi Jaiswal’s graph is rising. Joining him at the other end is famed T20 veteran Jos Buttler.
On the other hand, if LSG can be confident about their middle order with Nicholas Pooran and Marnus Stoinis in charge, the fitness of their skipper KL Rahul is key. He has recently recovered from quadriceps issues and has been advised to stay away from keeping wickets.