Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) will kick off the IPL 2024 Play-Offs in Qualifier 1 at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. The winner of this match will advance directly to the final, while the loser will await the winner of the Eliminator, where a fierce contest is set between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR). In the league stage, KKR finished at the top of the ladder with 20 points while SRH were second with 17 points to their name. Speaking of that, let us look at top three players who can be crucial for SRH in the upcoming Qualifier 1;

Heinrich Klaasen

While Travis Head has provided SRH with explosive starts, Heinrich Klaasen has been crucial in maintaining the momentum during the middle overs. Klaasen has scored 381 runs in 12 innings at an impressive strike rate of 183.17, with an average of 42.33 in IPL 2024.

The South African wicketkeeper-batsman has also performed well at the Narendra Modi Stadium, scoring 88 runs in two innings at a strike rate of 154.40. Against KKR, Klaasen has accumulated 133 runs at an average of 66.50 and a strike rate of 182.20. These stats suggest that Heinrich Klaasen could significantly influence the outcome in SRH’s favor.

Travis Head

The Australian opener has been in destructive form in IPL 2024. Travis Head has delivered explosive performances at the top of the order, helping his team reach mammoth totals. In IPL 2024, Head has amassed 533 runs in 12 innings, averaging 48.45 with an impressive strike rate of 201.13.

The Australian left hand opener has also excelled against KKR. In his only game against the franchise, he scored 75 runs off 47 deliveries. Additionally, he enjoys batting at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Although his IPL numbers here are limited, Head has excelled in longer formats at this venue. In Test cricket, he averages 61 in two innings, and his remarkable performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup final is well-remembered. In this crucial match, Travis Head could deliver another batting masterclass.

Also Read: 3 overseas players who did not get a single match in IPL 2024 league stage

Pat Cummins

The Australian Test captain has become SRH’s Captain Marvel in IPL 2024. Pat Cummins has excelled strategically and performed exceptionally with both bat and ball in crucial moments. The Aussie star has taken six wickets in three IPL matches at the NMS, maintaining an impressive economy rate of 7.55. Known for his ability to shine under pressure, Cummins may deliver another stellar performance based on his track record.

It is no doubt that Cummins has that pedigree to perform on the grand stage and also lead his side to victory with his brilliant captaincy.

IPL 2024: Qualifier 1: KKR vs SRH: 3 players to be in focus from SRH

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