Hyderabad, 02 May (H.S.): Ahead of Sunday's Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 match between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), KKR bowling coach Tim Southee spoke candidly about team preparations and strategy during the pre-match press conference.

Southee noted that the mid-tournament break proved highly beneficial for the team. Having some time off was good; it refreshed the players. We had won two consecutive matches before the break, maintaining our momentum. Hopefully, we'll carry that form forward, he said.

On Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana joining the squad, Southee confirmed his availability and strong practice performances. However, final selection for the playing XI will depend on pitch conditions.

Southee acknowledged SRH's dangerous batting this season, particularly their top and middle order featuring Heinrich Klaasen. This presents a big and exciting challenge for our bowlers. We bowled decently against them last time and will follow a similar strategy, he stated.

Southee emphasized that taking early wickets in the powerplay could prove decisive. Teams that strike early gain control of the match. We need a strong start and quick breakthroughs, he asserted.

On IPL's current format, Southee observed that the 'Impact Player' rule and smaller grounds favor batters. Teams now play fearlessly, attacking every ball. Yet, bowlers have ways to succeed, he said, citing Sunil Narine's example of leveraging experience and variety for impact.

Addressing boundary size debates, Southee remarked that each venue has unique characteristics. Stadiums like Bengaluru, Eden Gardens, and Wankhede may seem small, but that's cricket's beauty. Bowlers must adapt to conditions.

Notably, this daytime match will lack dew, potentially aiding bowlers to some extent.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar