How Can David Willey be RCB's Trump Card Against KKR?

image-lg4ur49tDavid Willey in action [Source: Twitter]

In a massive setback for Royal Challengers Bangalore, ace speedster Reece Topley is all set to miss their second group-stage fixture against Kolkata Knight Riders set to be played on Friday. So, in all likelihood, the Faf du Plessis-led team will replace Topley with David Willey for this fixture. 

Therefore, before the much-anticipated clash begins, let's analyse and find can Willey be RCB's go-to man against KKR tonight. 


A magnificent operator of the new ball

Regarded as a domestic legend in the English circuit, Willey could be lethal with the new ball, as he can swing it in the air and seam it off the surface. 

Statistically, he is one of the most successful power play bowlers in T20 cricket, scalping 77 wickets at a healthy economy rate. Also, his dot ball percentage reads 53.3, indicating his ability to keep it tight in the first six overs. 

So, on Kolkata's seam-friendly surface, Willey could certainly emerge as RCB's wrecker-in-chief with the new ball. 


A handy contributor down the order

Besides being a craftsman with the ball, Willey can be impactful with the bat too, contributing vital runs down the order. Thus, he provides RCB with the extra batting cushion every team craves in T20 cricket. Also, he has stunning numbers against right-arm pacers in death overs and mind you, KKR have only right-arm seamers in their lineup. 

David Willey vs right-arm pacers in death overs (T20s): 93 balls, 158 runs,  SR- 169.9


KKR batting unit's recent struggle vs left-arm seamers

Notably, KKR's batting had a forgettable outing in their first IPL 2023 game against Punjab Kings, as their top-order was ripped apart by Arshdeep Singh. So, considering recent struggle against left-arm quicks, we expect Willey to exhibit his bowling prowess in this face-off.