Sam Curran's performance was truly breathtaking as the Punjab Kings went past No. 2 team Rajasthan Royals at Guwahati. His stellar knock showcased his immense skill on the field. With just one game left in the TATA IPL 2024 season, our team is aiming to finish on a high note, and this win couldn't have come at a better time. Now, our eyes are set on the upcoming match against the formidable Sunrisers Hyderabad, and we are optimistic for another outstanding performance. Let's hope for a repeat and end the season with a bang.

Our bowlers give a splendid start!

After the Rajasthan Royals elected to bat first, our team needed a strong start, and Sam Curran delivered precisely that by dismissing Yashasvi Jaiswal in the very first over.

Despite Sanju Samson and Tom Kohler-Cadmore appearing to settle in, we maintained tight control over the boundaries, not allowing the opposition to score freely. Our bowlers' collective effort restricted the Royals to just 38 runs in the Powerplay, showcasing exceptional discipline and skill. It was a commendable display from our bowling unit, setting the tone for the rest of the innings.

Nathan Ellis and Rahul Chahar fox the Royals!

After the Powerplay, the momentum continued in our favor as Nathan Ellis, making his first appearance of the season, made an immediate impact by dismissing Sanju Samson.

Following suit, Rahul Chahar, who has been in exceptional form throughout the season, claimed the wicket of IPL debutant Tom Kohler-Cadmore for 18 runs. These crucial breakthroughs firmly placed us in a dominant position, signaling our intent to restrict the opposition to a low total. With key players like Ellis and Chahar stepping up, our bowling unit showcased its effectiveness on the field.

Riyan Parag and R Ashwin revive RR!

In the face of adversity, Riyan Parag and R Ashwin displayed resilience for the Rajasthan Royals. Initially, they cautiously navigated the situation, consolidating their position at the crease. However, as the innings progressed, Ashwin's aggression complemented Parag's steady approach, gradually shifting the momentum in their favor. Together, they orchestrated a crucial 50-run partnership, effectively revitalizing the Royals' innings and injecting new life into their pursuit. Their partnership not only steadied the ship but also posed a significant challenge to our bowling attack.

Our bowlers finished magnificently!

Following their pivotal 50-run partnership, our bowlers intensified their efforts to reclaim control of the match. Arshdeep Singh struck first, dismissing Ashwin, while Curran swiftly followed suit by removing Dhruv Jurel. Chahar's deceptive bowling accounted for the dismissal of Rovman Powell, further solidifying our dominance in the game.

However, Parag's resilient innings stood out amidst the collapse, as he valiantly guided the Rajasthan Royals to a total of 144 runs. In the death overs, Harshal Patel claimed two crucial wickets, reaffirming his reputation as a formidable bowler under pressure and reclaiming the Purple Cap.

Rilee Rossouw gets off to a flier!

In the run chase, our start encountered an early setback with the loss of Prabhsimran Singh in the very first over. However, Rilee Rossouw continued his impressive form from the previous game, showcasing his batting skills with a blistering 22 runs. His innings was embellished with five exquisite boundaries, with his fine touch and ominous presence at the crease keeping the run rate in check. Rossouw appeared poised for a substantial score before his dismissal.

The Royals fight back!

Despite a fine start from our batters, the Rajasthan Royals remained resolute in their pursuit of victory. Avesh Khan, entering the attack, wasted no time in making an impact. His fiery spell saw the wicket of Rilee Rossouw followed swiftly by the dismissal of Shashank Singh in the same over, significantly denting our progress. However, Jonny Bairstow and Sam Curran initiated a promising recovery, offering hope for a resurgence. Unfortunately, their partnership was short-lived as Yuzvendra Chahal accounted for Bairstow's wicket, halting our momentum once again.

Jitesh Sharma and Sam Curran’s 63-run stand!

After the dismissal of Jonny Bairstow, the pressure was on us, but Sam Curran and Jitesh Sharma had a different agenda altogether. Curran, showing great composure, anchored the innings while Sharma, who has struggled with form this season, rediscovered his touch at the crucial moment. Together, they orchestrated a partnership, adding 63 runs to the total and steering us within touching distance of victory. However, just as momentum swung our way, Jitesh’s departure offered the Rajasthan Royals a glimmer of hope.

Curran takes us home comfortably!

Our skipper emerged as a determined leader, showcasing his resolve in his final game of the season before returning to England. He rose to the occasion, guiding us to victory with authority. Displaying his power, he unleashed two crucial sixes, steering the ship at pivotal moments.

Together with Ashutosh Sharma, they navigated us home with seven balls to spare, culminating in a memorable triumph. Curran's magnificent performance undoubtedly etched a moment to cherish in our memories.

After a splendid display in the penultimate game, we now shift our focus to the final showdown in Hyderabad against the Sunrisers. Despite missing the services of Jonny Bairstow and Sam Curran, we will strive to be at our best in that game. It’s time for a final hurrah this season.

Brief Scores: Rajasthan Royals 144 for 9 in 20 overs (Riyan Parag 48, Ravichandran Ashwin 28, Rahul Chahar 2/26) lose to Punjab Kings 145 for 5 in 18.5 overs (Sam Curran 63, Rilee Rossouw 22, Avesh Khan 2/28)

Man of the Match: Sam Curran