The Mayank Agarwal-led Punjab Kings, after defeating Faf du Plessis-led Royal Challengers Bangalore, have jumped to 6th place on the points table with 12 points in 12 games (6 wins and 6 defeats). Their net run rate has improved from -0.231 to 0.023. Still, they have a plenty of things to do in order to qualify for the playoffs.
PBKS registered a victory over RCB with a huge margin and so kept their playoffs alive. This match was a must-win for PBKS. They have first posted a massive 209/9 for RCB and the latter scored only 155/9. So PBKS then won the game by 54 runs.
PBKS have two matches left to play and to qualify for the playoffs, they have to win the two, which will then take them to 16 points.
But, if the teams placed above PBKS on the points table end up winning their games, then Punjab’s chances are very low.
Punjab will hope for RCB’s defeat in the latter’s next matches and their own victory to end up in the top-four.
Right now, in the top-four, Gujarat Titans are the table toppers, followed by Lucknow Super Giants, Rajasthan Royals and then Royal Challengers Bangalore.
PBKS vs RCB match result
Mayank Agarwal had sacrificed his opening position to Jonny Bairstow and the latter had smashed 66 off 29 balls; also scored second fastest half-century in 21 balls. When his innings ended, his English compatriot Liam Livingstone’s quick-fire helped PBKS cross the 200-run mark.
Hailing Bairstow and Agarwal, PBKS head coach Anil Kumble said: “He is an exceptional player. His experience at the top of the order it’s not easy for Mayank ho has done exceptionally well at the top to sacrifice his place and come down the order”.
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