Surat, September 28, 2024: India Capitals, the GMR Group-owned franchise, are all set for their third challenge of the Legends League Cricket (LLC) 2024 as they take on Konark Suryas Odisha in the ninth game of the league. The highly anticipated contest will be played tomorrow at the Lalabhai Contractor Stadium, Surat. Both teams will be aiming to claim a crucial victory to build momentum in the league. With one win and one loss, India Capitals currently sit third in the league standings with two points, while Odisha are positioned second.
The game between India Capitals and Konark Suryas Odisha will broadcast LIVE on Star Sports Network on September 29, 2024 (Saturday) from 7 PM IST. Fans can also live stream the match on FanCode.
India Capitals started their campaign with a thrilling win but went down to Southern Super Stars in their last encounter. Despite a strong batting display, where Ben Dunk and Ashley Nurse powered the team to a competitive total of 171/4, the Capitals couldn’t defend their target, losing the match by 4 wickets. On the other hand, Konark Suryas also began their campaign on a winning note, defeating Manipal Tigers in a low scoring thriller. Their latest match against the same opponent, however, was washed out due to rain.
Speaking ahead of the match, India Capitals captain Ian Bell commented, “We’re looking forward to the Odisha challenge. The team is determined to bounce back after the last game, and we’ve worked on a few areas to ensure we put on a strong performance. Our focus is on playing good cricket, executing our plans better, and getting the win we need.”
Now, with their first outing at the new venue, the Capitals will look to regroup and bounce back stronger against Konark Suryas Odisha. Skipper Ian Bell will be looking to make the right tactical changes and ensure that the team performs as a cohesive unit. The Capitals would rely heavily on Ben Dunk who has been explosive with the bat this season. Other key players, including Dwayne Smith, Naman Ojha, Ian Bell, Ashley Nurse, and Colin de Grandhomme can also be pivotal in driving the team to victory. On the bowling front, Dhawal Kulkarni, Chris Mpofu, Rahul Sharma, Iqbal Abdulla, and Parwinder Awana, will have the crucial task of limiting the opposition’s run-scoring potential.
Led by the seasoned Irfan Pathan, Konark Suryas Odisha are expected to present a tough challenge for the Capitals. Their powerful batting lineup, which includes stars like Ambati Rayudu, Kevin O’Brien, Ross Taylor, and the Pathan brothers, will aim to dominate the game. The bowling attack, spearheaded by Shahbaz Nadeem and Vinay Kumar, has been effective in applying early pressure, and their spinners could pose a serious threat to the Capitals’ batsmen. The Odisha team is keen to build on their strong form and secure another win in the league.
Both teams are looking for a crucial win to strengthen their standings in the tournament, and with both squads packed with experienced players, this promises to be another thrilling contest in the Legends League Cricket T20.
India Capitals Squad: Ian Bell (Captain), Kirk Edwards, Dwayne Smith, Ben Dunk, Naman Ojha, Colin de Grandhomme, Iqbal Abdulla, Dhruv Raval, Dhawal Kulkarni, Ashley Nurse, Parwinder Awana, Pankaj Singh, Pawan Suyal, Chirs Mpofu, Barinder Saran, Bharat Chipli and Faiz Fazal
Konark Suryas Odisha Squad: Irfan Pathan (C), Yusuf Pathan, Kevin O’ Brien, Ross Taylor, Vinay Kumar, Richard Levi, Dilshan Munaweera, Shahbaz Nadeem, Fidel Edwards, Ben Laughlin, Rajesh Bishnoi, Pravin Tambe, Diwesh Pathania, KP Appanna, Ambati Rayudu, and Navin Stewart
