The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala is set to host the fifty-eighth showdown of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 tournament, featuring Punjab Kings (PBKS) against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on May 9th at 7:30 PM IST. As the match looms, PBKS occupies the eighth spot on the points table, with RCB close behind at seventh.
With both teams having played eleven matches this season, they share similar records, each securing four wins. In their recent outings, PBKS faced a defeat against Chennai Super Kings by 28 runs, with Prabhsimran Singh contributing 30 runs. Conversely, RCB emerged victorious against Gujarat Titans, clinching a 4-wicket win, courtesy of Faf du Plessis’ 64 runs.
Their historical encounters have seen a close competition, with PBKS holding a narrow lead, having won 17 out of 32 matches against RCB’s 15 victories. The venue’s nature might influence the game, as previous matches have showcased varied conditions. While the first game of the season witnessed a slower surface aiding seamers and spinners, night games have historically favoured batters, suggesting a potentially better batting track this time.
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Nonetheless, pacers could still find some assistance early on. In their earlier face-off this season, RCB emerged triumphant, adding another layer of intrigue to their upcoming clash. As the teams brace for yet another showdown, anticipation runs high for another thrilling encounter in the IPL 2024 season.
Punjab Kings (PBKS)
Shikhar Dhawan’s absence continues to loom over the setup, leaving a gap yet to be filled. Jonny Bairstow, however, stands as a formidable force, boasting remarkable success against RCB. With a century and two fifties in five innings, he commands attention, amassing 261 runs at an astonishing strike rate of 177.55. His dominance extends even against RCB’s Mohammed Siraj, boasting a strike rate of 216 against the powerplay specialist.
Bairstow’s prowess offers hope for Punjab Kings, who anticipate another stellar performance from the Englishman. PBKS is anticipated to maintain their current lineup, banking on Bairstow’s consistency. A potential inclusion of Liam Livingstone might disrupt the balance, possibly sidelining Rilee Rossouw. However, such changes appear improbable, mirroring the unlikelihood of Shikhar Dhawan’s return.
Probable XI: Jonny Bairstow, Rilee Rossouw, Shashank Singh, Sam Curran (c), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Ashutosh Sharma, Harpreet Brar, Harshal Patel, Kagiso Rabada, Rahul Chahar, Arshdeep Singh.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
Rajat Patidar’s aggressive intent, particularly against spinners, emerges as a pivotal factor. Despite seven dismissals in 100 deliveries, his high strike rate of 183 between overs 7-15 underscores his importance. With a three-match winning streak, RCB is expected to retain their winning formula, maintaining stability in their lineup.
Probable XI: Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis (c), Glenn Maxwell, Will Jacks, Cameron Green, Dinesh Karthik, Karn Sharma, Swapnil Singh, Yash Dayal, Vijaykumar Vysakh, Mohammed Siraj.
Fantasy XI Suggestion 1:
Jonny Bairstow, Virat Kohli (c), Faf du Plessis (vc), Shashank Singh, Glenn Maxwell, Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Cameron Green, Harshal Patel, Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj
Fantasy XI Suggestion 2:
Jonny Bairstow (c), Dinesh Karthik, Shashank Singh, Virat Kohli (vc), Faf du Plessis, Rajat Patidar, Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Harshal Patel, Yash Dayal, Rahul Chahar
