IPL 2017, Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Gujarat Lions: 5 winning factors

#4 X-factor

Jadhav offers solidity in the middle order

It would be tempting to go with Samuel Badree or Tymal Mills as the X-factor for RCB. But in reality, that title should go to Kedar Jadhav. The diminutive wicket-keeper batsman walks in after the electrifying top three and is a more or less a complete batsman himself.

RCB's biggest advantage this season is they have Jadhav after the top three. It virtually means that there is little respite for the bowlers, especially an attack as limited as Gujarat Lions.

The X-factor for Gujarat Lions would be Andrew Tye. The Australian bowler has impressed with his many variations in the powerplay and death overs and could be the main weapon that Raina will use against a strong Bangalore batting.

Tye possesses a cunning yorker and a smart slow ball, making him a difficult proposition to deal with at the death. With Basil Thampi also capable of bowling toe-crushing yorkers, RCB will have their task cut out in the death.