The Indian Premier League (IPL) is not just a cricket tournament; it’s a emotional battle for cricket fans in India. With each passing season, the intensity and excitement of the IPL only seem to escalate. This excitment is fueled by the fierce rivalries that emerge between the teams on the field. As we gear up for IPL 2024, here are the top 3 rivalries to keep an eye on:
1. Mumbai Indians vs. Chennai Super Kings
The greatest rivalry in the history of IPL is between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings. The battle between the Mumbai Indians and the Chennai Super Kings never fails to deliver fireworks. Led by two of the most successful captains in IPL history, Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni, respectively, these two teams have faced each other in a number of close encounters.
There is going to be some more excitement in the game between CSK and MI because Hardik Pandya has been appointed as the new skipper of Mumbai Indians. MS Dhoni and Hardik Pandya will be facing each other in this high intensity clash.
2. Royal Challengers Bangalore vs. Kolkata Knight Riders
The clash between the Royal Challengers Bangalore and the Kolkata Knight Riders is not just about cricket; it’s about the clash of cultures. On one hand, you have the flamboyance of Bangalore, led by the veteran Faf Du Plessis, and on the other, you have the grit and resilience of Kolkata, led by young Shreyas Iyer. With explosive batting lineups and wily bowling attacks, every encounter between these two teams is a rollercoaster ride of emotions for fans.
Fans are eagerly waiting for this clash because Gautam Gambhir has joined KKR as mentor ahead of IPL 2024. Virat Kohli and Gambhir will be facing each other once again while playing for RCB and KKR respectively.
Another exciting point in this rivalry is the return of Mitchell Starc in IPL. Starc became the most expensive player in the history of IPL as KKR brought him. The last time Starc featured in IPL, he was a part of RCB’s squad. He will be facing his former team.
3. Gujarat Titans vs. Lucknow Super Giants
As two of the newest teams of IPL, the rivalry between the Gujarat Titans and the Lucknow Super Giants is still in its beginning stages. However, with both teams having a mix of seasoned veterans and exciting young talent, the potential for a fierce rivalry is certainly there. Whether it’s the explosive batting of Shubman Gill or the crafty spin bowling of Rashid Khan, every match between these two sides promises to be a thrilling affair.
