JAIPUR: If chasing down a mammoth target against Pune Warriors India was a test of character for Rajasthan Royals, Tuesday could throw up a bigger challenge for the hosts. When Rahul Dravid's men square off against Delhi Daredevils in a crucial match, they would be cautious of a slip-up.
With 14 points in their kitty, the Royals would be looking to win the remaining two games at home to stay in the race for the play-offs and captain Dravid would be hoping to keep the fortress intact.
Clearly, it won't be cakewalk for the Royals. On paper, the Daredevils are a balanced side, who can turn the tables on the opponents on any given day. So, what if they have failed to perform this time! Having superstars like Virender Sehwag, Mahela Jayawardene and David Warner in the ranks, the Daredevils have the potential to beat the odds. And, now that they are already out of the title race, they would be looking to prove a point.
And, Rajasthan Royals know it well. To combat the Morkels and the Umesh Yadavs, the Royals will be relying on Ajinkya Rahane and captain Dravid. After shining against Warriors, Rahane too would be raring to go. The focus, however, would be on Dravid. The 40-year old, who showed the signs of steel on Sunday, would be inspired by the presence of his childhood hero Sir Vivian Richards, who is the mentor of the Devils.
But it's not just about Rahane and Dravid. The SMS would certainly look forward to the 'duel' between Shane Watson and Sehwag. Known for their big-hitting abilities, they would be hoping to lap up every opportunity at the SMS track, which promises to help the batsmen. This edition of T20 League has been a story of contrasts for the two. While Watson has proved to be the Royals' Man Friday, Sehwag has failed to impress. Apart from his unbeaten 95 against Mumbai Indians, the Nawab of Najafgarh hasn't got going. And, here's a chance for him to bounce back!
If batting is the Royals' strength, bowling remains an area of concern. Despite having the likes of Siddharth Trivedi, Kevon Cooper and James Faulkner, the hosts struggled on Sunday. And, captain Dravid won't be happy with that. So, on Tuesday, against a heavyweight Delhi side, the bowlers will also face the acid test. In such conditions, Shaun Tait could be brought in.
In this edition, a young Royals side has showed the signs of steel at home by winning all the six home games here, and they would be hoping to remain unbeaten here.
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