SRH vs RR Star Wars: Kane Williamson vs Ajinkya Rahane

Williamson and Rahane are both top-quality batsmen in all forms of the game. They are also characters who prioritise the values of fair-play and respect, and are less demonstrative on the field.

The ejection of Steve Smith and David Warner from the Indian Premier League (IPL) is likely to impact their respective teams adversely, for not only were they two well-established leaders, they were also batsmen of rare pedigree. However, crisis heralds opportunity; the new captains — Kane Williamson (Sunrisers Hyderabad) and Ajinkya Rahane (Rajasthan Royals) — will hope to usher in a fresh start and shape their teams with the ideas and principles they inspire.

Williamson and Rahane are both top-quality batsmen in all forms of the game. They are also characters who prioritise the values of fair-play and respect, and are less demonstrative on the field.

With the bat, they can adjust to various situations. Although their Twenty20 career strike-rate — 118.54 (Rahane) and 118.01 (Williamson) — indicate they aren't hard-hitters in the manner of Chris Gayle, they can up the ante if needed.

Their teams will also depend on their captaincy skills in what is likely to be a competitive league.

Who will outshine the other on Monday?