The Arun Jaitley Stadium gears up for a compelling IPL 2025 clash on Tuesday as the Delhi Capitals (DC) host Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in their 48th encounter.

The match presents a stark contrast in fortunes, with a confident DC aiming to solidify their top-four spot against a KKR side desperately needing a turnaround.

DC have emerged as a formidable force, showcasing impressive consistency with six wins in nine matches, securing 12 points.

Conversely, KKR find themselves in a precarious situation, languishing at seventh place with just three wins in nine games, facing an uphill battle to revive their campaign.

KKR's batting is hinged on the opening pair of Sunil Narine and Rahmanullah Gurbaz. While Narine has shown glimpses of his explosive potential, Gurbaz needs a significant contribution.

Skipper Ajinkya Rahane, their leading scorer with 271 runs at a strike rate of 146, will likely bat at number three, aiming for consistency in crucial moments. Angkrish Raghuvanshi is expected to be the impact player, with potential inclusion of both Andre Russell and Rovman Powell alongside Rinku Singh.

Speculation surrounds the possible inclusion of Moeen Ali to strengthen the middle order, prompting questions about the overseas player who might make way.

KKR's bowling attack will be led by the consistent trio of Varun Arora, Harshit Rana, and Varun Chakravarthy, each having claimed 11 wickets.

Meanwhile, the DC are eager to bounce back from their recent loss. Their opening pair is likely to feature the in-form Abhishek Porel alongside the returning Du Plessis. Karun Nair is expected to bat at number three.

The spotlight for DC will be on KL Rahul, who has been in stellar form, amassing 364 runs in eight innings at an impressive average of 60 and a strike rate of 146. Axar Patel will anchor the middle order alongside Tristan Stubbs and Ashutosh Varma.

The Capitals' bowling charge will be spearheaded by Mitchell Starc and the impressive Kuldeep Yadav, who has taken 12 wickets with an excellent economy of 6.55.

Mukesh Kumar will also play a crucial role, having picked up nine wickets.
With contrasting forms and ambitions, the clash between the DC and the KKR promises to be a captivating encounter.

Delhi will aim to capitalize on their home advantage and strong momentum, while Kolkata desperately seeks a victory to reignite their campaign.