In today’s IPL 2024 match between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, PBKS faces a setback with the absence of star batter Jonny Bairstow. The match holds significance for SRH, who aim to secure the second spot in the points table, while PBKS looks to salvage a positive ending to their season despite being out of the playoff race.
With SRH already securing a playoff spot and placed third in the points table with 15 points from 13 games, a victory in this match would enhance their chances of clinching the coveted second spot. On the contrary, PBKS finds themselves in the ninth position, facing a depleted lineup due to the absence of several overseas players including Bairstow, Sam Curran, and Liam Livingstone, who have returned to England for national duty.
In a bid to make the most of the situation, PBKS stand-in captain Jitesh Sharma won the toss and elected to bat first. Sharma highlighted the importance of putting runs on the board and exerting pressure on the opposition despite having limited overseas options. Rilee Rossouw remains the sole overseas player available for PBKS, while the team relies on its strong Indian contingent to deliver on the field.
The PBKS playing XI comprises Prabhsimran Singh, Atharva Taide, Rilee Rossouw, and other Indian talents, with Jitesh Sharma leading the side. On the other hand, SRH fields a formidable lineup including Abhishek Sharma, Rahul Tripathi, and Nitish Kumar Reddy, with Pat Cummins leading the side.
As both teams take the field, the match promises to be an intriguing battle between SRH’s playoff aspirations and PBKS’s determination to finish the season on a positive note. With each player eager to make an impact, cricket enthusiasts can expect an exciting contest at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.
