RR vs DC IPL 2023: Desperate to break losing streak, Delhi Capitals take on Rajasthan Royals

GUWAHATI: Rajasthan Royals have only two connections with Guwahati. One is their collaboration with Assam Cricket Association (ACA) in setting up their cricket academy five years ago at Barsapara Cricket Stadium here and the other is Riyan Parag - the only Assamese player plying his trade in the IPL.
However, both were not enough to ensure houseful stands in their first 'home' match against Punjab Kings.
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Losing the first-ever IPL match in northeast India and Riyan not living up to the expectations of the home crowd didn't help Royals' cause either - on or off the field.

So, as Delhi Capitals come calling for Royals' second and last 'home' match in Guwahati on Saturday, the hosts have their task cut out against the struggling visitors in an afternoon match. This will be their last chance this season to entertain local spectators and expand their fan base.

Going down by just five runs against Punjab Kings might imply the match was evenly fought, but Royals were never in control of the chase except during the late charge by young Dhruv Jurel and Shimron Hetmyer.

Captain Sanju Samson did play a holding role for some time but could not see them through. And to make matters worse, Jos Buttler is a doubtful starter after injuring his left hand little finger in the previous match. He needed a few stitches for the wound and the area is still bandaged.

DC, having lost both their matches so far, will take heart from the fact that their opponents don't have an express bowler in their ranks. Captain David Warner has had a decent start personally but has failed to provide that blitzkrieg opening the team needs.

Capitals will be missing Aussie allrounder Mitchell March for the next week as he has gone back home to get married.