Picture Credit: RCB
Virat Kohli's RCB have gone off to a thrilling start to the IPL 2021 season, having won both of their first two contests against Mumbai Indians and SunRisers Hyderabad. They are the only unbeaten side left in the tournament and would be looking to complete a hattrick of wins when they meet Eoin Morgan's KKR on Sunday in Chennai. While they have a well-settled team, the Bengaluru-based franchise are likely to make one key change in their playing XI.
Daniel Sams joins RCB squad
The Aussie all-rounder, who was traded to RCB from Delhi Capitals ahead of IPL 2021, had a very difficult start to the season. Sams had tested positive for COVID-19 on arrival and had been in isolation since then. After a few tough days, the 28-year-old tested negative twice before joining the team's bio-bubble eventually on Saturday.
RCB debut for the Aussie on Sunday?
It is expected that Daniel Sams might straightaway make his way to RCB's playing XI for their crucial clash against KKR on Sunday. The 28-year-old can replace another Aussie all-rounder Dan Christian who has been ineffective with both bat and ball. Christian has scored only 2 runs and has conceded 28 runs in 3 overs without taking any wickets so far this season.
While Sams can play a similar aggressive role with the bat, he would also provide a major boost to the bowling line-up for Royal Challengers Bangalore. In the recent season of Big Bash league, the all-rounder scored 200 runs in 9 matches at a scintillating strike-rate of 188.60. The Aussie also took 11 wickets while conceding runs at an economy of 8.51.
With all-rounders like Washington Sundar and Shahbaz Ahmed providing the balance, the inclusion of Daniel Sams in RCB's playing XI could give them a major edge in comparison to other teams. It will be interesting to see if Virat Kohli's side will give more time to Dan Christian or make the bold move as early as on Sunday.
