0:
The Indian T20 League is poised very interestingly right now with only a final few league games remaining this season. While Chennai have already sealed their berth in the play-offs, it isn't the same scenario for Rajasthan who find themselves in a rather do-or-die situation. MS Dhoni's side are the clear favourites on paper but let us have a look at few more factors to determine who could have the upper hand:
1. Head-to-head record
In the 25 overall meetings between the two sides, Chennai have dominated the fixture with 15 wins to their name which also included a comprehensive 45-run win earlier this season. Although Rajasthan won both the contests played in UAE last season, things are slightly different this year with Chennai in red-hot form.
2. UAE factor
The contest will be played in Abu Dhabi where the bowlers have dominated. Chennai's bowling department is clicking as a unit with Josh Hazlewood, Shardul Thakur and Deepak Chahar consistently among the wickets. With Jadeja's spin bowling option and Bravo's death bowling, there is no doubt that they have more variety in their attack in comparison to Rajasthan.
3. Form of players
With batting being quite challenging, Chennai's opening duo of Ruturaj Gaiwkad and Faf du Plessis act as the difference between the two sides. Although Lewis-Yashasvi pair has also done well, the experience in the middle-order also gives the Yellow Army an upper hand.
Considering the factors mentioned above, the team of the day is Chennai.