New Delhi: The last time Virat Kohli stepped onto the field at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in January, it became one of the most discussed Ranji Trophy matches in recent times as he was dismissed cheaply while playing for Delhi. On Sunday, when the RCB icon faces off against Delhi Capitals (DC), the crowd’s support is likely to be strongly in his favor.

Nevertheless, challenging Kohli’s star status will be KL Rahul, who has been in exceptional form himself — he has accumulated 323 runs in seven matches at an average of 64. 40. He had delivered a fantastic 93* to defeat RCB at his own M Chinnaswamy Stadium in the earlier match.

Although Kohli skipped practice on Saturday, fans would be hoping he makes a powerful statement at home similar to what Rahul did previously.

Ahead of the matchup, RCB’s player identification manager and spin coach Malolan Rangarajan commented on Rahul’s celebration in Bengaluru: “He’s entitled to that. He played a good knock. Good on him. We’ve had no discussions at all. ”

DC, who have triumphed in six of their last eight matches, will strive to deliver a stronger performance at home. Their initial two games at the Ferozeshah Kotla this season resulted in a loss and a Super Over victory, showcasing the venue’s character.

Discussing the conditions, DC opener Jake Fraser-McGurk mentioned: “Last year, it was really flat and nice, didn’t bounce that much. This year, it’s a little more inconsistent, harder to get used to. It might take more time for batters to settle. ”

McGurk has experienced a disappointing season — he has managed 55 runs in six matches — and it remains uncertain whether he will keep his spot in the XI with DC likely to welcome Faf du Plessis back from injury, after the South African veteran practiced in the nets. “I think he’s available tomorrow, from my understanding,” Fraser-McGurk stated.

The Kotla pitch, which has seen two exhilarating matches with an average score of 190, is once again anticipated to provide assistance for the bowlers.

For RCB, their spinners will be vital on a pitch that offers inconsistent bounce. Rangarajan commended the effectiveness of Suyash Sharma, a Delhi leg-spinner, and Krunal Pandya. “Suyash’s super strength is the ability to beat the bat on both edges and bowl at high speed. Plus, his action is unique, making it slightly difficult for batters to pick. ”

The ever-reliable Krunal Pandya continues to innovate even at 34. “KP’s release is very different from what it was even two years ago. He’s still working on getting more dip, drift, and using the crease more effectively,” Rangarajan remarked.

At the top of the order, Devdutt Padikkal — he struck big shots under RCB mentor and batting coach Dinesh Karthik’s watchful eye — will be crucial in supporting Kohli and Phil Salt.

“The transparency in his position and the effort he’s invested, being open to technical and tactical suggestions, have created a significant impact,” Rangarajan mentioned. An intriguing match-up will occur between Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood — two of Australia’s top fast bowlers, particularly effective in the death overs — on a pitch that might support reverse swing.

Fraser-McGurk reflected Starc’s previous statements, minimizing the importance of saliva in facilitating reverse swing, attributing the notable movement to drier pitches instead.

With DC and RCB occupying the second and third spots in the points table, a victory for either team will enhance their playoff prospects and a chance at their inaugural IPL title.

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