IPL 2017 Player Battles: Top 4 player encounters to look for in Kolkata Knight Riders vs Gujarat Lions match

#2 Yusuf Pathan vs James Faulkner

Yusuf Pathan can destroy the opposition bowling line-up in no time

When it comes to death overs, James Faulkner is one of the best options for a bowling captain. He mixes his pace effectively and has total control over his length and is the ultimate weapon to minimise the damage.

In their first game of this season, skipper Suresh Raina will be banking on the Australian to restrict the batting of Kolkata Knight Riders.

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However, the job on hand for Faulkner won’t be that easy as he will be lined up against the mighty Yusuf Pathan.

Faulkner is one of the best in the death overs

Since the inception of the IPL, the hitting capabilities of the senior Pathan brother is well known, and although in the past few years he has failed to perform constantly, he still remains a huge threat.

Pathan relies on power and when the ball is pitched in his zone, it mostly disappears into the crowd. On the other hand, Faulkner is famous for outwitting the batsman through his change of pace and length.

When the two finishers meet in the death overs, expect a lot of sparks to fly.