Mullanpur, April 13 (UNI) Rajasthan Royals won the toss and elected to bowl first against Punjab Kings in the 27th match of IPL 2024 here on Saturday.
Both captains, Sam Curran and Sanju Samson, seem to have clear strategies for their respective teams ahead of this crucial encounter.
Curran acknowledged the absence of regular Punjab captain Shikhar Dhawan due to a niggle but remains optimistic about the team’s balance. He highlights the strength of their middle order, particularly Shashank Singh and Ashutosh Sharma.
With Atharva Taide replacing Shikhar and Livingstone returning to the side, Punjab looks to have a solid lineup. Curran emphasised the need to put runs on the board after losing the toss and indicated confidence in the team’s quality and exciting players.
Samson, on the other hand, believed that the pitch looked suitable for bowling first. Despite facing challenges with several players missing due to injuries, Samson is focused on the process and building the team.
He acknowledged the good performances in the last game but pointed out that some key players like Jos Buttler and Ashutosh Sharma are not at a cent percent fit. As a result, Rovman Powell and Tanush Kotian come into the playing XI.
Both teams have their strategies set for the match. Punjab will look to capitalise on their batting depth and quality players, while Rajasthan aims to exploit the bowling-friendly conditions and their collective team effort. It promises to be an exciting contest between two competitive sides in IPL 2024.
Teams:
Rajasthan Royals (Playing XI): Sanju Samson(w/c), Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Tanush Kotian, Keshav Maharaj, Trent Boult, Avesh Khan, Kuldeep Sen, Yuzvendra Chahal
Punjab Kings (Playing XI): Jonny Bairstow, Atharva Taide, Prabhsimran Singh, Sam Curran(c), Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma(w), Shashank Singh, Harpreet Brar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Kagiso Rabada.
