Klaasen remains central to the Sunrisers’ middle order, providing finishing ability in a batting unit built around aggressive top-order players. His role becomes important if early momentum slows, particularly on a surface that can flatten out.
AFRICA PICKS: Kolkata Knight Riders vs Sunrisers Hyderabad – IPL preview
Ishan Kishan anchors the Sunrisers’ top order, while Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma provide early big-hitting options.
Kolkata rely on Rinku Singh, record-signing Cameron Green and superstar Varun Chakravarthy for balance.
Both teams enter the match after defeats in high-scoring openers, where batting strength was evident but bowling lacked control. That pattern is relevant at Eden Gardens, a venue known for producing large totals and favouring chasing sides under lights.
With Sunrisers reliant on their batting depth, Klaasen is expected to play a key role in shaping the innings through the middle and late overs.
Photo: Pankaj Nangia/Getty Images
