Punjab Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders, 24th Match - Live Cricket Score, Commentary

Build-up

In their last 14 encounters since 2014, Kings XI Punjab have won only thrice against Kolkata Knight Riders. Despite two of KXIP batsmen being present in the top three run-getters in this IPL so far, Kings XI haven't strung together consistent performances, with four successive losses reducing them to the bottom of the table. The frequent chopping and changing of personnel isn't helping their cause in any way. There is a likelihood of Chris Gayle featuring for KXIP in this game. Will that herald the start of their comeback journey?

Kolkata Knight Riders, on the other hand, are looking a lot more settled and although it has been a roller-coaster journey of sorts for them, they are in the top half of the points table with three wins from five matches. Rahul Tripathi's impressive knock in their last game will come as a shot in the arm for KKR, who have also struggled a bit finding their best batting order. There is a concern with Dinesh Karthik and Andre Russell not being amongst the runs but KKR will be banking on the two senior players to overcome the struggles.

A mini Caribbean carnival is on the cards, writes Purnima Malhotra as she previews the first game of Saturday's double-header. Meanwhile, KXIP skipper KL Rahul has brushed aside concerns over his strike-rate suggesting that numbers can be misleading at times.