As the 2 finalists of the Indian Premier League 2022 are set to face each other in the summit clash, former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina and Former South African cricketer Graeme Smith have presented contrasting views.
While Raina feels the advantage lies with Gujarat Titans who got the direct ticket to the finals after defeating Rajasthan Royals in Qualifier 1, Graeme Smith feels Rajasthan Royals who entered the finals after beating RCB in the Qualifier 2 would have better chances.
GT will have the slight edge because they have got a good 4-5 days rest, Raina said adding that the tempo they have had in this season will further boost their confidence.
The Hardik Pandya-led side have had an amazing debut season as they won 10 out of their 14 league stage matches and finished on the top spot in the IPL points table. However, as per an interesting IPL fact, the team qualifying on the first spot in the IPL table have reached the finals 10 times, but they have only been able to win the final 4 times (Mumbai Indians have won on all 4 ocassions).
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On the other hand, Smith said that Rajasthan have an advantage over GT since they have won the Qualifier 2 on the same surface. Motera Stadium which hosted RR vs RCB will also be the venue for the IPL final.