Kolkata face tough tie in Chennai: Buchanan

Kolkata, Apr 24 (UNI) Coach John Buchanan today said his Kolkata Knight Riders will face a tough opponent in Chennai Super Kings in away match on Saturday saying dew and toss will play major factors in the decider.

Former Australia coach John Buchanon after practice session in Eden Gardens said Chennai was a balanced team both in batting and bowling and at night cricket dew and toss played major roles in the decider.

On team combination, Buchanan said hopefully the winning squad would play in Chennai. KKR in their second tie against Hyderabad on April 20 had retained the same winning combination in the campaigner against Bangalore. Chennai also won their first two matches against Mohali and Mumbai.

Although West Indies skipper Chris Gayle arrived here yesterday to join the side, the Carribean allrounder was given rest due to his groin injury he had suffered during home series against Sri Lanka.

Ricky Ponting, who is scheduled to leave for Australia after Kolata-Mumbai match on April 29 at Eden, said he was enjoying IPL and mixing with youngsters. The IPL's T20 had given home grown cricketers a huge opportunity to play with many top class cricketers.

On coming as replacement of an Australian Brad Hodge, both Buchanan and Ponting said the all rounder will be useful for shorter version of cricket.

Pakistan's Omer Gul and Salman Butt are also expected any time to join Kolkata side.

On England and Wales Cricket Board's effrot to have EPR, similar to IPL, the duo said the efforts were good for cricket.

A delegation from ECB is expected to visit Eden Gardens today to see how Indian Premier League was being organised.

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