Kolkata's build-up to Friday's opening game has been quieter than in the first two seasons. They appointed a coach who prefers to stay behind the scenes; they named one captain for the entire tournament rather than pass the responsibility around; and they've had fewer chest-beating advertisements on television. Their owner, Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan, has, by his standards, flown under the radar. One of the few off-field developments that made headlines was their new purple and gold strip.
Deccan Chargers finished last in the opening season, winning only two games and none at home in Hyderabad. They too made significant changes - a new captain and coach - for the second season in South Africa and were surprise winners. However, they are not among the most formidable teams this season: their squad contains overseas players, who are either out of form or short on match-practice; their bowlers had struggled to contain on India's flat batting surfaces and were more effective in South Africa.
Kolkata Knight Riders have only six overseas players to choose from at the moment: Brad Hodge, Owais Shah, Ajantha Mendis, Angelo Mathews, Mashrafe Mortaza and Charl Langeveldt. The likes of Brendon McCullum, Chris Gayle, David Hussey and Shane Bond will join the squad only after their international commitments.
Ajit Agarkar did not train on the eve of the match because of a calf strain and is likely to sit out as well. Kolkata signed up an Under-19 player, Mandeep Singh, 48 hours ago and he is reportedly in their scheme of things.
Deccan don't have a choice regarding their overseas players for the first game. They have only four in the squad so Adam Gilchrist, Herschelle Gibbs, Andrew Symonds and Chaminda Vaas will play. It's a bit of a concern since Gilchrist, Symonds and Vaas have been out of competitive cricket while Gibbs has been struggling for form with South Africa. They have a strong Indian contingent, though, with VVS Laxman and Rohit Sharma bolstering the batting, and RP Singh and Pragyan Ojha leading the bowling.
In Langeveldt, KKR possess a clever bowler capable of taking crucial wickets and Gilchrist's will be the prize scalp. Langeveldt played only one game last season so, if given an opportunity tomorrow, he'll be keen to stake his claim before Shane Bond arrives.
"Everyone team is affected by the international schedule. It is not a surprise. We are only one of the teams who are not full-strength as yet. But it is about the Indian contingent and how they perform that can often determine the results."
Adam Gilchrist isn't too concerned by the shortage of overseas players for the first game.
"It's a new set up at KKR. We have done the best in everything we can, hopefully we will deliver. I am not too keen to talk about the past. We have a good atmosphere."
Sourav Ganguly isn't dwelling on poor campaigns of the past.
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