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IPL 9, DD vs RPS: Usman Khawaja & George Bailey – Depleted MS Dhoni & Co need Aussie duo to fire from the word go

While another new franchise Gujarat Lions are ranked second in the points table with six wins from nine matches, RPS are languishing at the fifth position with just two wins from eight matches.

IPL 9, DD vs RPS: Usman Khawaja & George Bailey – Depleted MS Dhoni & Co need Aussie duo to fire from the word go

New Delhi: After losing four key overseas players to injuries in Indian Premier League (IPL), Mahendra Singh Dhoni-led Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS) find themselves in a precarious position.

While their players have not been in the best of form since the beginning of this season, several injuries have only added to their woes.

RPS have called Usman Khawaja and George Bailey as replacements for compatriots Mitchell Marsh and Steve Smith.

As Pune take on Delhi Daredevils in Match 33 of the tournament today, they need Khawaja as well as Bailey to start delivering from the first match itself, since not much time is left in the tournament now.

Khawaja had a phenomenal run with the bat in the Big Bash League (BBL) where he also scored vital 70 runs at the top of the order which helped Sydney Thunders seal the title. Bailey, who was released by Kings XI Punjab last year, isn't brutal with the bat, but he can contribute handsomely with the bat in the middle-overs at quick pace.

While another new franchise Gujarat Lions are ranked second in the points table with six wins from nine matches, RPS are languishing at the fifth position with just two wins from eight matches.

Considering the fact that the Australians generally perform well in the cash-rich tournament, RPS would be banking heavily upon the two Aussies to get their campaign back on track.