IPL 2021: RR vs PBKS – Match 4, How can Punjab Kings get past Rajasthan Royals today?
Follow Us
Punjab Kings
Punjab Kings (PBKS) would want to get up and running in their new name, logo and kit as they face Rajasthan Royals (RR) today at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The KL Rahul-led side had a topsy-turvy IPL season last year as they weathered a horrible start to come roaring back and get back in contention for the playoff spots. Ultimately, they fell short and had to be content with a sixth placed finish.
This time around, PBKS went with the highest purse at the auction and picked up quite a few players to plug the holes in their squad and to add depth. With an already excellent core and with the addition of new players, they would fancy their chances of making it to the playoffs this time around. They will be up against RR who would also want nothing but a win in the first match to set the tone for the tournament.
Ahead of PBKS’ match against RR, we take a look at how the former can come up trumps.
IPL 2021: RR vs PBKS – Key for PBKS #1: Good finish needed against the RR bowlers
Punjab Kings had most of their contributions from the top order last year as the likes of KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal led from the front with some fascinating hitting. The West Indian duo of Chris Gayle and Nicholas Pooran shone as well and this year, with the addition of the reliable Dawid Malan, the top order looks sorted.
With Glenn Maxwell as the finisher last year, the side struggled and this time around, they have released him. A lot would thus, depend on the likes of Deepak Hooda, Shahrukh Khan, Moises Henriques and Fabian Allen depending on who gets the nod to play. Against one of the weaker death bowling attacks, they must make best use of RR’s weakness and look for a strong finish at the death.
IPL 2021: RR vs PBKS – Key for PBKS #2: Early wickets are a must
While it remains unclear as to what opening combination RR would go with for today, there has been speculation and statements from the media as well as Eoin Morgan that Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler would open. If that is the case, a lot would depend on the start that the Englishmen give for RR. If the two can be prized out early, it would expose the fairly inexperienced middle order consisting of Indians.
The key would hence, be to pick up early wickets. The returning Mohammed Shami would hold key and so would the likes of Jhye Richardson and Chris Jordan. If that can be done, PBKS would be favourites to win the encounter.
Also Read: Can Delhi Capitals win this year’s IPL under Rishabh Pant’s captaincy?
Stay Updated!
Nevin Clinton
(2399 Articles Published)