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The 14th edition of the Indian Premier League has reached its end with MS Dhoni’s Chennai Super Kings locking horns with Kolkata Knight Riders in the final. CSK were one of the most dominating sides this season both in Phase 1 and Phase 2. On the other hand, KKR rather saw a turnaround in the UAE leg and they’ve looked remarkable in the 2nd phase of IPL 2021. The Dhoni-led side won Qualifier 1 against Delhi Capitals and directly secured their ticket to the finals. Whereas, KKR defeated RCB and DC in the Eliminator and Qualifier 2, respectively, to make it to the final. Given the season these two teams have had, the stage is set for a competitive game and some exciting cricketing action.
There have been many stalwarts for these two sides and owing to their contribution the teams have made it to the finals. Let’s have a look at 5 such players who have been consistent throughout and can guarantee fantasy points in the blockbuster final.
- Ruturaj Gaikwad
The CSK opener has been one big reason for the team to finish in the top 2, because of his consistent performances and match-winning knocks. Having scored 603 runs this season, he’s only 23 runs away from KL Rahul, who is the current orange cap holder. Gaikwad is undoubtedly a bankable and must-have pick in the IPL final and can also turn out to be the orange cap holder of this season. Ruturaj is also a dependable option for captain in the grand finale owing to his consistency.
- Venkatesh Iyer
It wouldn’t be wrong to say that Venkatesh Iyer has emerged out to be the most valuable player for KKR this season. The left-hander has looked in remarkable form in the second leg of IPL and has made his presence felt by scoring 390 runs in 9 matches. Iyer can also be a bowling option for the side and has picked 3 wickets as well this season. In the last game, he scored a magnificent half-century and continued his good form in the playoffs as well. This makes him a must-have in the final of IPL 2021.
- Varun Chakravarthy
The KKR spinner has been in incredible form in the UAE leg and has picked 18 wickets this season. He’s the 4th highest wicket-taker of this season and the highest wicket-taker for the Knights, picking 18 wickets in 16 matches at an economy of 6.40. Chakravarthy has been consistent in picking wickets and giving good fantasy points which makes him a dependable choice for the much-awaited final.
- Faf du Plessis
The Proteas batsman has been the 2nd highest run-scorer for CSK after Ruturaj Gaikwad this season. Having scored 547 runs this season, his quick starts have helped the team make the most of the powerplay overs and stabilise the innings. This season du Plessis has scored 43 and 95* in the two games against Kolkata, which makes him an exciting pick for the upcoming finale. Faf’s partnership with his fellow CSK opener, Gaikwad has been the standout difference between Chennai and other teams, making him an essential pick.
- Shubman Gill
The KKR batsman is the highest run-scorer for the team as he has smashed 427 runs in 11 matches. Gill has especially looked unstoppable in the UAE leg and is a reliable batsman for Kolkata Knight Riders. Additionally, he has been in great form in the last few games of KKR which act as a plus point and is another reason why the 22-year-old is a must-have pick in one’s fantasy team.