By Zainab Shafiq 
The IPL 2024 final will feature the top two teams from the league stage for the 11th time, as Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) face off for the title. KKR secured their place in the final by defeating SRH by eight wickets in Qualifier 1, and then overcoming Rajasthan Royals by 36 runs in Qualifier 2.
Notably, Kolkata have previously won the IPL title twice while SRH won once. KKR’s triumphs came in 2012 and 2014 under the leadership of Gautam Gambhir, who has reunited with the team as a mentor for IPL 2024. In his first year back, Gambhir has successfully guided KKR to the final once again.
KKR has had SRH’s number this season, beating them once in the league stage and again in Qualifier 1. SRH, however, has been one of the most dominant teams in IPL 2024, boasting a formidable bowling lineup capable of challenging KKR’s strong batting order. Key batsmen for SRH include Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, Rahul Tripathi, and Heinrich Klaasen.
The final is set to take place at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on May 26. However, there are concerns about a storm in the Bay of Bengal that could potentially impact the match. While the storm is not expected to hit Chennai directly, there will be 100% cloud cover and winds reaching 21 kmph. If the storm changes direction, the match could face severe disruptions.
Umpires are prepared to wait until 11:30 PM for the match to start if weather conditions are unfavorable. Should the match not be able to commence on May 26, it will be moved to the reserve day on May 27. A similar situation occurred in IPL 2023 when the final was postponed to the reserve day due to inclement weather, with CSK ultimately defeating Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
With key players from both teams in excellent form, fans can expect a thrilling contest as KKR and SRH vie for their third IPL title in what promises to be an exciting conclusion to the IPL 2024 season.
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