IPL 2024: Punjab Kings' strongest predicted playing XI against Sunrisers Hyderabad

Punjab Kings (PBKS) will host Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Match 23 of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024). The two are scheduled to meet at the newly built Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, Chandigarh on Tuesday, April 9 at 7:30 PM (IST). Both are coming on the back of impressive wins and expect another riveting episode of cricketing action.

The hosts are currently fifth in the points table with two wins from four matches. Inconsistency has been their major problem in the past seasons and this time around we are witnessing a similar trend. Shikhar Dhawan and Co. started their campaign with a four-wicket win against Delhi Capitals but then suffered two defeats and staged a comeback back in the last match, but it wasn't a smooth victory. 

It was Shashank Singh's outstanding knock that gave Punjab an incredible last-over victory against Gujarat Titans (GT). SRH put up impressive performances so far, especially in their batting department. Currently fourth in the standings with two wins, the Pat Cummins-led team posted the highest score in league history (277) earlier this season. Can PBKS stop the high-flying SRH and what will be their team combination and strategies?

Also Check: IPL 2024 Orange Cap

Here's the probable playing XI for PBKS for the IPL 2024 match against SRH:

Openers: Shikhar Dhawan and Jonny Bairstow

Punjab Kings' opening pair of Shikhar Dhawan and Jonny Bairstow have put together just one fifty-plus partnership this season. However, either of the two makes a strong start in the powerplay. Dhawan has made  138 runs in four matches, but the southpaw was unable to contribute his share when his boys were chasing a mammoth total in the last match.

Bairstow, on the other hand, struggled to find runs in the first two matches but found his rhythm as the tournament progressed. Punjab will continue with the same left-right combo, but they will expect a big stand from the duo to make it easy for the rest of the batters. 

Also Check: SRH vs MI MPL Opinio Today's Prediction - Who will win?

Middle-order: Prabhsimran Singh, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Shashank Singh

Prabhsimran Singh will come at number three. The explosive batter has been with the franchise for a few years and is slowly paying dividends. Although he has yet to score big this season, the 23-year-old has been providing much-needed acceleration at crucial stages. Prabhsimran's 24-ball 35 in the last match against GT proved vital in their epic win.  

Jitesh Sharma is known for his aggressive batting but the wicketkeeper batter has failed to live up to expectations so far in this edition. His two sixes in the middle overs against GT were crucial, but the franchise is expecting more contributions from him. Shashank Singh, the 'mistaken identity', is currently the hero of PBKS. The big-hitter played a knock to remember for ages (61 off 29) to pull off a stunning win for his side in the last match. He has been delivering such impactful runs in the lower-middle order and will aim to continue in the role in the coming matches.

Also Check: IPL 2024 Purple Cap

All-rounders: Sam Curran, Sikandar Raza

Sam Curran is a key player for PBKS as his contribution to both departments can make a significant difference in their overall performance. He was adjudged Player of the Match in the first match of PBKS for scoring a match-winning 63 off 47 balls. Curran's bowling prowess was seen only in the match against LSG, where he took three wickets.

The franchise's most expensive player will have more to offer in the coming games to keep his team in the hunt for the playoff race. Sikandar Raza was featured in the last match but failed to shine in both departments. PBKS are likely to maintain their winning combination and the Zimbabwe cricketer will get another chance to prove his mettle.

Bowlers: Harpreet Brar, Harshal Patel, Kagiso Rabada, Arshdeep Singh 

Harpreet Brar will lead the spin attack for PBKS. The left-arm orthodox bowler has impressed everyone with his tight lines and wicket-taking skills. His best performance so far this season was against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), taking two wickets for just 13 runs in his four overs. Moreover, he is also a handy lower-order batter. Brar will have the assistance of Sikandar Raza in the middle overs. 

South African star pacer Kagiso Rabad will spearhead the pace unit consisting of Harshal Patel and Arshdeep Singh. Rabada, who has taken six wickets thus far, has been the go-to-bowler for skipper Dhawan. Harshal has been leaking a lot of runs in the death overs, creating a major concern for the pace attack. Arshdeep Singh has the knack of picking up wickets and has shown his temperament while bowling in crunch moments. 

Also Check: IPL 2024 Purple Cap

IPL 2024: PBKS' Probable Playing XI against SRH, Match 23

Shikhar Dhawan (C), Jonny Bairstow, Prabsimran Singh, Sam Curran, Sikandar Raza, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Shashank Singh, Harpreet Brar, Harshal Patel, Kagiso Rabada, Arshdeep Singh 

Impact substitute - Ashutosh Sharma