
The 8th match of IPL will be played between Virat Kohli-led Bangalore and R Ashwin-led Punjab.
Both sides have two of the strongest squads in the tournament but have begun their respective campaigns on contrasting notes. While Punjab defeated Delhi in their tournament opener, Bangalore lost to the Kolkata in theirs.
As Bangalore will be eye to open their account, Punjab will fight to continue their winning momentum.
So, let's take a look at the players to watch out for in today's game.
Brendon McCullum and AB de Villiers: The two players were the top scorers for Bangalore in their opening match against Kolkata. While McCullum made 43 runs, de Villers smashed 44 off 27 and 23 balls respectively. The two players are in good form and can deplete the Punjab bowling attack.
Virat Kohli:The Bangalore skipper who was a bit rusty and slow in his innings against Kolkata needs that one innings to get into full flow. After playing the second fiddle in the opening match by scoring just 31 of 33 balls, Kohli will look to have a better outing against Punjab to open their account in the eleventh edition of IPL.
Yuzvendra Chahal: The M.Chinnaswamy Stadium is known to a be a deathbed for bowlers in general- flat pitches, small grounds to go with the big bats. However, Yuzvendra Chahal has managed to make his mark. He is the go-to bowler for Virat Kohli. Though he had an ordinary start to this IPL, he is sure to bounce back against Punjab. The visitors will have to be wary of his spin and control.
KL Rahul: Punjab's KL Rahul had an impressive start to the new edition of Indian Premier League (IPL). The right-handed batsman made history by scoring the fastest fifty in IPL. He took just 14 balls to reach his half-century. his innings reflected his striking capabilities as the player was only considered an option in Indian Cricket team and that too for Test cricket. Bangalore would be wary of this batsman who is sure to put on an unpredictable performance.
Karun Nair: Apart from KL Rahul, Karun Nair also played a splendid knock of 33-ball fifty to help Punjab register their first win against Delhi. But what makes him the dangerous player for today is his experience at the ground. Nair learned his game in the Chinnaswamy stadium and is well aware of the ground and its conditions. His knowledge will give an advantage to Punjab to claim their second win in IPL.
Chris Gayle: The 'run-machine' Gayle is expected to make his debut for the eleventh edition of IPL today against Bangalore. And if he does then Bangalore surely must plan out a way to send him back to the pavilion soon. If given time to settle, Gayle can destroy any bowling line and can take the franchise to victory single-handedly.