The upcoming clash between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL 2024 promises to be a thrilling encounter, set to take place in Dharamsala on May 5th. Both teams have showcased their prowess in the tournament so far, with PBKS having played 10 games and CSK with the same number of matches under their belt.
CSK currently holds the 5th position on the points table, securing victory in 5 out of their 10 encounters. With 10 points and a net run rate of +0.627, they are poised to make a significant impact in the remaining matches. PBKS, however, finds themselves at the 7th spot with 8 points and a net run rate of -0.062. Despite their lower standing, they remain a formidable opponent, capable of turning the tide in their favor.
The historical head-to-head record between CSK and PBKS stands at 15 wins for CSK and 14 for PBKS out of 29 encounters. However, the recent trend suggests a shift in momentum, with PBKS emerging victorious in the last five encounters. This streak gives PBKS a psychological edge going into the upcoming match.
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Dharamsala’s pitch is renowned for its sporting nature, offering assistance to fast bowlers, particularly in the initial overs. Spinners may find it challenging to make an impact, while batsmen can capitalize on the quick-scoring opportunities as the innings progress, thanks to the altitude of the ground.
As cricket enthusiasts gear up for this highly anticipated clash, all eyes will be on Dharamsala as PBKS and CSK vie for supremacy on the field.
Punjab Kings (PBKS)
Punjab Kings are closely monitoring Shikhar Dhawan’s shoulder injury, hopeful for his return in the last two games. CSK’s reliance on Ruturaj Gaikwad in the top order is evident, but his vulnerability against left-arm pace poses a challenge. Despite his brisk strike rate of 147, Gaikwad has fallen five times to left-arm pacers in 89 deliveries. PBKS, equipped with Arshdeep Singh and Sam Curran, aim to exploit this weakness. Unlikely to alter their squad, PBKS strategizes to capitalize on Gaikwad’s vulnerability.
Probable XI: Jonny Bairstow, Prabhsimran Singh, Rilee Rossouw, Sam Curran (c), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Shashank Singh, Ashutosh Sharma, Harpreet Brar, Kagiso Rabada, Harshal Patel, Rahul Chahar.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
Deepak Chahar’s season-ending injury impacts CSK, while Matheesha Pathirana’s return offers hope after missing the last game. However, Mustafizur Rahman’s departure leaves a void, compounded by Tushar Deshpande’s flu-induced absence. Pathirana’s stellar performance in the middle overs, with eight wickets at an economy of 5.46, positions him as a crucial asset against PBKS’ batting duo. His inclusion, potentially replacing Rahman, becomes pivotal. Should Deshpande remain sidelined, Mukesh Choudhary stands ready to step in for the injured Chahar.
Probable XI: Ajinkya Rahane, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Daryl Mitchell, Moeen Ali, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni, Sameer Rizvi, Shardul Thakur, Richard Gleeson, Tushar Deshpande/Mukesh Choudhary
Fantasy XI Suggestion 1:
Jonny Bairstow, Ruturaj Gaikwad (vc), Shivam Dube, Shashank Singh (c), Ashutosh Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, Liam Livingstone, Sam Curran, Matheesha Pathirana, Mustafizur Rahman, Harshal Patel
Fantasy XI Suggestion 2:
Jonny Bairstow, Shashank Singh, Shivam Dube, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Prabhsimran Singh, Sam Curran (c), Ravindra Jadeja, Harshal Patel, Harpreet Brar, Richard Gleeson, Matheesha Pathirana
