RR to face RCB in Qualifier 2 of IPL 2022.
Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar said that Rajasthan Royals (RR) spinner R Ashwin could be a problem for his team in the Qualifier 2 of IPL 2022 against the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) if the pitch at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad turns out to be a flat one instead of being a spin supportive track.
Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Manjrekar said that Ashwin tries to use a lot of variations if the pitch does not support spin, which might not come in handy for the team. However, the Royals will have an advantage in the presence of Chahal and Ashwin, he added.
"Ravichandran Ashwin is a problem for RR on flat tracks as he tries a lot of variations. He bowls fewer off-spinners on such occasions. But when there is a turn, then he becomes a dangerous bowler. RR will benefit if the pitch is favorable for spinners as Chahal and Ashwin will bowl in tandem," Manjrekar said.
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Showering praises on RR pacers Prasidh Krishna and Obed McCoy, the former cricketer said that they could be the two best options for RR during the death overs.
Manjrekar said, "Death bowling has been a weakness for RR. Trent Boult is a world-class bowler but they have to use him with the new ball as his record isn't that great in the death overs. They have backed Prasidh Krishna and he has done decently well this season. Obed McCoy has proved to be a surprise package and they will trust him to deliver."
Adding further, he said that RR is out of option for a sixth bowler other than Riyan Parag.
The second qualifier of IPL 2022 will be played between RR and RCB on 27th May, Friday. The winner will face the Gujarat Titans (GT) at the finals on 29th May.
(ESPNcricinfo inputs)