Kolkata: Daredevils will take on Kolkata Knight Riders in their tournament opener and the team from Delhi is missing some key players because of their national duty. Despite that, KKR coach Travor Bayliss believes that even a depleted Delhi Daredevils side was capable of springing a "nasty surprise".

Bayliss said on Wednesday the Virender Sehwag led side could not be taken lightly when the two sides meet in the Indian Premier League here Thursday.

He predicted it would be a close match.

"Just because they don't have a few players we can't take them lightly. We may get a nasty surprise. They are still a very good side," Bayliss told mediapersons on the sidelines of his side's practice session at the Eden Gardens.

Mahela Jayawardene, Englishman Kevin Pietersen and David Warner of Australia are busy serving their national teams, while explosive New Zealander Ross Taylor is nursing a broken hand.

Bayliss said Jacques Kallis joined the squad Wednesday and would be available for selection on the morrow.

He said the Knight Riders' batsmen were capable of taking on the formidable pace attack of the Daredevils.

"We have good batters. I think it will be an even game, a good spectacle for the Kolkata fans. We are expecting a close battle," said the coach.(IANS)