It promises to be an interesting battle within a battle. For the first time in the IPL, the world's leading all-rounder would face up to the best fast bowler on the planet.

South African Jacques Kallis will square up against compatriot Dale Steyn when they play for Kolkata Knight Riders and Deccan Chargers, respectively, at the Eden Gardens today.

Both played for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the past.

"Yes, we have never played against each other before. This is going to be the first time. I am looking forward to it. No doubt it is going to be a challenge, but I never worry about who is bowling to me," Kallis told MiD DAY.

The 35-year-old from Cape Town has amassed 11,947 runs in Tests and 11,227 in ODIs besides grabbing 534 wickets in the two forms of the game put together.

Steyn, nicknamed 'Speed Gun' for his express pace, was equally excited about the contest. "I am looking forward to the contest as well. It should be enjoyable," the 27-year-old, who has 319 international wickets under his belt, said.

Chargers' skipper Kumar Sangakkara said it would be a battle between his bowlers and KKR batsmen.

"Our bowling is strong. We have an all-round bowling attack while KKR's batting depth is quite good. It is going to be a battle between our bowlers and their batsmen," he said.

Both KKR and Chargers lost their opening matches, to Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals respectively, on Saturday.

Sangakkara admitted that although KKR had a poor run in the previous editions, they were a formidable team this season.