As the TATA IPL 2024 approaches its conclusion, the Punjab Kings reflect on an exciting season. Despite coming close to victory in numerous games, we fell short - often in the final over. With just two matches remaining, we aim to conclude the tournament on a high note, striving for consecutive wins. Following two losses in Dharamshala, we are now preparing for the upcoming fixture in Guwahati, determined to bounce back and finish strong.
Our recent stint in Dharamshala proved challenging, as we faced successive defeats against Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Noteworthy was our encounter with Bengaluru, where Virat Kohli's masterful innings of 92 propelled them to an imposing total of 241 runs. Despite a promising start, courtesy of Jonny Bairstow's solid performance and Rilee Rossouw's explosive 61 off just 27 deliveries, our momentum faltered after Rossouw's dismissal.
Rilee's power was on full display last night! 💥💪🏻#SaddaPunjab #PunjabKings #JazbaHaiPunjabi #TATAIPL2024 #PBKSvRCB pic.twitter.com/mUK84FJDdz
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) May 10, 2024
The subsequent collapse left us falling short by a considerable 60-run margin. Now, with only two games left in the season, we're determined to regroup and finish on a high note. It's a crucial opportunity for redemption, and we are ready to give it our all in the remaining fixtures.
This was a tough loss to take. 💔
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) May 9, 2024
Sorry, #SherSquad. We tried our best. 😞#SaddaPunjab #PunjabKings #JazbaHaiPunjabi #TATAIPL2024 #PBKSvRCB pic.twitter.com/rdMG9qBlVL
Rajasthan Royals are on the brink of securing a Playoff spot, needing just one more win to confirm their qualification. Despite a recent string of losses, losing three games in a row, the team remains brimming with confidence. Sanju Samson has been exceptional this season, showcasing top form, while their bowling unit, spearheaded by Trent Boult and Yuzvendra Chahal, is also in impressive form. However, inconsistent performances from Yashasvi Jaiswal has been a concern. Jos Buttler has left for England, so they will also have to find a suitable replacement for the opener for the final few games.
Shimron Hetmyer's exceptional performance in our previous encounter led the Royals to a narrow 3-wicket victory. Despite our best efforts to defend a low score, standout performances from Kagiso Rabada and Sam Curran, who both claimed 2 wickets, were not enough. Over our 27 meetings, Rajasthan has held the upper hand, emerging victorious 16 times. Our clashes have been thrilling spectacles, often going down to the wire. Now it's time to anticipate yet another exciting showdown in IPL’s own El-Clasico!