Punjab Kings etched their name in cricketing history on April 26th, 2024, with an unprecedented feat in T20 cricket.The match between Punjab Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) witnessed a historic chase, as PBKS successfully pursued a formidable target of 262 runs, clinching victory with eight wickets in hand. This remarkable achievement secured a crucial win and set a new benchmark in the world of T20 cricket.

The Record-Breaking Chase

Jonny Bairstow emerged as the match’s hero, delivering a masterful century that propelled Punjab Kings to victory. Bairstow’s exceptional batting prowess and aggressive intent were on full display as he dominated the opposition bowlers with remarkable strokeplay and precision timing.

See Also: Punjab Kings beat Kolkata Knight Riders by 8 wickets

Bairstow’s Century

Bairstow reached his century milestone in the 16th over, displaying exceptional timing and power in his stroke-play. It took him 45 deliveries to achieve this feat, showcasing his aggressive intent immediately. Bairstow’s century was complemented by a blistering partnership with Shashank Singh, who played a pivotal role in accelerating the run rate with a quickfire 68 runs off just 28 balls.

High-Scoring Match

The match witnessed a flurry of runs and sixes, with 523 runs scored from both teams, aided by an astounding 42 sixes. This staggering display of power hitting not only enthralled cricket fans but also showcased the sheer entertainment and excitement that T20 cricket has to offer.

Fan Reactions and Criticisms

After witnessing such a high-scoring and thrilling encounter, cricket fans took to social media to express their reactions. Some hailed the match as one of the greatest in IPL history, praising the players for their exceptional performance. However, there were also criticisms, with some fans expressing disappointment and comparing the IPL unfavorably to other cricket leagues, such as the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

The cricket world witnessed an extraordinary display of skill and determination as Punjab Kings (PBKS) achieved the most successful chase in T20 cricket history, surpassing Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) daunting target of 262 runs in Match 42 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 at the Eden Gardens.

PBKS’ Incredible Chase

Led by Jonny Bairstow’s stellar century and Shashank Singh’s explosive batting, PBKS pulled off a remarkable victory, chasing the target with eight wickets and eight balls to spare. Bairstow’s breathtaking innings of 108 runs off 48 balls and Shashank’s blistering 68 off just 28 deliveries set the stage for PBKS’ historic triumph.

See Also: Netizens question KKR for sending Shreyas ahead of Rinku Singh

PBKS’ Stellar Performance

Prabhsimran Singh and Jonny Bairstow provided PBKS with a rollicking start, forging a formidable opening partnership of 93 runs off just 36 balls. Prabhsimran’s quickfire fifty in 18 balls set the tone for PBKS’ aggressive pursuit. Despite Prabhsimran’s dismissal, Bairstow continued to dominate the KKR bowlers, reaching his century in just 45 balls, marking his second century in the IPL.

With Prabhsimran’s departure, Rilee Rossouw joined Bairstow at the crease, continuing the team’s momentum with another formidable partnership of 85 runs from 36 balls. Rossouw’s innings, however, met its end as he lost his wicket to Sunil Narine, with Shreyas Iyer completing the dismissal with a catch.

After Rossouw’s exit, Shashank Singh partnered with Bairstow in the middle. Meanwhile, the Englishman reached his century, taking just 45 balls on the final delivery of the 16th over. Shashank sustained the attack from the other end, injecting vitality into PBKS’s pursuit. He achieved his fifty in the 18th over off just 23 deliveries. Together, the pair orchestrated a match-winning partnership, accumulating 84 runs in just 37 balls. Shashank remained unbeaten with an impressive 68 runs off 28 balls, while Bairstow stood firm with 108 runs from 48 deliveries.

KKR’s Explosive Start

In the first innings, KKR’s explosive start, fueled by Phil Salt and Sunil Narine’s onslaught, propelled them to a mammoth total of 261/6. Salt and Narine’s 138-run opening partnership, characterized by aggressive hitting and impeccable timing, laid the foundation for KKR’s formidable total. However, PBKS’ disciplined bowling and fielding efforts restricted KKR’s scoring in the later stages of the innings.

While Salt made 75, Narine slammed 71. The duo was also helped by PBKS dropping three catches collectively in the first seven overs to smash the bowlers to all parts of the park. After the duo fell, Andre Russell, Shreyas Iyer, and Venkatesh Iyer brought out the big hits to take KKR to the highest-ever IPL total at Eden Gardens, with the help of 22 fours and 18 sixes.

Salt and Narine’s 138-run partnership against PBKS is the second-highest opening partnership by any KKR pair in IPL history, behind the unbeaten 184-run stand shared by Chris Lynn and Gautam Gambhir against Gujarat Lions on 7 April 2017.

The High-Octane Encounter

The match witnessed a flurry of boundaries and sixes, with a record-breaking 42 sixes smashed, marking the highest number in IPL history. Both teams’ relentless pursuit of victory kept the spectators on the edge of their seats throughout the match, showcasing the competitive spirit of the IPL.

KKR bowling today
Narine: 1/24 from 4 overs (ER: 6)
Others: 0/236 from 14.4 overs (ER: 16.09)

Highest scores in a T20 run-chase
262/2 – PBKS vs KKR, Kolkata, IPL 2024
262/7 – RCB vs SRH, Bengaluru, IPL 2024
259/4 – South Africa vs West Indies, Centurion, 2023
254/3 – Middlesex vs Surrey, The Oval, T20 Blast 2023
253/8 – Quetta Gladiators vs Multan Sultans, Rawalpindi, PSL 2023

Most sixes in an IPL innings
24 – PBKS vs KKR, Kolkata, 2024
22 – SRH vs RCB, Bengaluru, 2024
22 – SRH vs DC, Delhi, 2024
21 – RCB vs PWI, Bengaluru, 2013
Only Nepal have managed more sixes in an innings in Men’s T20 cricket than PBKS today. They hit 26 during their monumental 314/3 effort against Mongolia in Hangzhou at the Asian Games last year.

Most sixes in a Men’s T20 match
42 – KKR vs PBKS, Kolkata, IPL 2024
38 – SRH vs MI, Hyderabad, IPL 2024
38 – RCB vs SRH, Bengaluru, IPL 2024
37 – Balkh Legends v Kabul Zwanan, Sharjah, APL 2018/19
37 – SKNP vs JT, Basseterre, CPL 2019

Highest aggregates in an IPL match
549 – RCB vs SRH, Bengaluru, 2024
523 – SRH vs MI, Hyderabad, 2024
523 – KKR vs PBKS, Kolkata, 2024
469 – CSK vs RR, Chennai, 2010
465 – DC vs SRH, Delhi, 2024

Highest targets successfully chased in the IPL
262 – PBKS vs KKR, Kolkata, 2024
224 – RR vs PBKS, Sharjah, 2020
224 – RR vs KKR, Kolkata, 2024
219 – MI vs CSK, Delhi, 2021

Highest targets successfully chased in Men’s T20 cricket
262 – Punjab Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders, Kolkata, IPL 2024
259 – South Africa vs West Indies, Centurion, 2023
253 – Middlesex vs Surrey, The Oval, T20 Blast 2023
244 – Australia vs New Zealand, Auckland, 2018
243 – Bulgaria vs Serbia, Sofia, 2022
243 – Multan Sultans vs Peshawar Zalmi, Rawalpindi, PSL 2023

The match began with anticipation as Prabhsimran Singh and Jonny Bairstow stepped onto the pitch for the chase of 262 runs against KKR. Facing Chameera’s deliveries, Bairstow wasted no time making his mark, smashing a boundary off the fourth ball, setting the tone for Punjab Kings.

Bairstow’s Dominance

Harshit Rana took up the ball next, but Bairstow proved a formidable opponent, sending the ball soaring over the long-on boundary for a massive SIX. Meanwhile, Rossouw joined the action, breaking his four-dot streak with a boundary of his own.

See Also: Netizens question KKR for sending Shreyas ahead of Rinku Singh

As Harshit Rana continued his spell, Bairstow showcased his prowess with a mistimed shot that still cleared extra covers for a SIX, propelling him to a well-deserved FIFTY. Andre Russell entered the attack, but Bairstow, greeting him with a boundary, remained unfazed.

Bairstow’s Milestone

In a stunning display of skill and determination, Bairstow reached a century in just 45 balls, solidifying his reputation as a powerhouse batsman. Jonny Bairstow becomes the FIRST player to score an IPL century while chasing 250+ total.

Fastest IPL hundreds for PBKS (by balls faced)
38 – David Miller vs RCB, Mohali, 2013
45 – Mayank Agarwal vs RR, Sharjah, 2020
45 – Jonny Bairstow vs KKR, Kolkata, 2024
49 – Wriddhiman Saha vs KKR, Bengaluru, 2014 final

Punjab Kings’ Created History

With KKR setting a formidable target of 261/6 at the Eden Gardens, PBKS have a golden opportunity to surpass the highest IPL chase and etch their name in the annals of T20 cricket history with the most successful chase ever.

Blistering Start by Punjab Kings

PBKS wasted no time launching a fierce assault on the opposition bowlers, courtesy of a breathtaking century by Jonny Bairstow in just 45 balls. Bairstow’s explosive innings set the tone for Punjab Kings’ chase, instilling hope and excitement among fans witnessing the unfolding drama at the Eden Gardens.

T20 Record for Highest Successful Chase

While IPL matches have witnessed thrilling chases over the years, the overall T20 record for the most successful chase currently rests with South Africa. However, with PBKS’s ambitious pursuit of KKR’s imposing total, cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate witnessing history being made on the hallowed grounds of Eden Gardens.

High Scores in IPL 2024 Season

The ongoing season of the IPL has witnessed a surge in high-scoring matches, with teams consistently posting 250-plus scores. Sunrisers Hyderabad, in particular, have set new benchmarks by recording the two highest scores ever in IPL and T20 franchise cricket, adding to the excitement and intensity of the tournament.

Highest successful IPL run-chases

Highest successful T20 run-chases

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) showcased their batting prowess against Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League 2024 match in Kolkata on April 26. They crushed the opposition bowling attack and set a daunting total of 261 for 6.

Highest Total in IPL at Eden Gardens

KKR’s total of 261 for six at Eden Gardens secured a convincing victory and marked the highest total in IPL history at the venue. This remarkable achievement underscores KKR’s dominance on their home turf and showcases their batting firepower in the tournament.

See Also: IPL 2024: Phil Salt joins the elite list of Russell and Maxwell

Sunil Narine and Phil Salt’s Rapid Start

The foundation of KKR’s imposing total was laid by Sunil Narine and Phil Salt, who started the innings with aggressive intent. Their explosive partnership took KKR to 138 runs in just 10.2 overs before Narine’s dismissal, setting the stage for a formidable total.

Contribution of Andre Russell and Venkatesh Iyer

After Narine and Salt’s early dismissals, Andre Russell and Venkatesh Iyer continued the onslaught, adding crucial runs to the scoreboard. Their partnership of 40 runs in just 3 overs provided momentum to KKR’s innings, further consolidating their position.

Fan Reactions to Rinku Singh’s Dismissal and Skipper’s Batting Position

The dismissal of Rinku Singh sparked controversy among KKR fans, who expressed disappointment with the team management’s decision to send skipper Shreyas Iyer ahead of him. Despite fan demands for Rinku Singh to bat, Shreyas Iyer showcased his batting prowess with a quickfire innings. Shreyas Iyer scored 28 runs in just 10 balls.

KKR’s Dominance Over PBKS Bowlers

KKR’s aggressive batting approach left the Punjab Kings’ bowlers struggling to contain the onslaught. Arshdeep Singh, Sam Curran, Harshal Patel, and Rahul Chahar were among the wicket-takers for Punjab Kings, but they failed to stem the flow of runs against KKR’s relentless batting lineup.

Sloppy Fielding by Punjab Kings

Punjab Kings’ fielding woes compounded their bowling difficulties, adding several dropped catches. The sloppy fielding performance further dented their chances of restricting KKR’s run-scoring, allowing the opposition to capitalize on the missed opportunities.

Most expensive bowling returns for PBKS
0/66 – Mujeeb Ur Rahman vs SRH, Hyderabad, 2019
1/66 – Arshdeep Singh vs MI, Mohali, 2023
1/65 – Sandeep Sharma vs SRH, Hyderabad, 2014
0/62 – Michael Neser vs RCB, Mohali, 2013
1/60 – Sam Curran vs KKR, Kolkata, 2024

Most 250+ totals in Men’s T20 cricket
3 – Surrey
3 – SRH
2 – Czech Republic
2 – Somerset
2 – Yorkshire
2 – RCB
2 – KKR

Most sixes in an IPL innings for KKR
18 vs DC, Visakhapatnam, 2024
18 vs PBKS, Kolkata, 2024
17 vs CSK, Chennai, 2018
17 vs PBKS, Kolkata, 2019

250-plus team totals in the IPL
287/3 – SRH vs RCB, Bengaluru, 2024
277/3 – SRH vs MI, Hyderabad, 2024
272/7 – KKR vs DC, Visakhapatnam, 2024
266/7 – SRH vs DC, Delhi, 2024
263/5 – RCB vs PWI, Bengaluru, 2013
261/6 – KKR vs PBKS, Kolkata, 2024
262/7 – RCB vs SRH, Bengaluru, 2024
257/5 – LSG vs PBKS, Mohali, 2023

English batter Phil Salt showcased his power-hitting prowess in Kolkata Knight Riders’ ongoing IPL 2024 clash against Punjab Kings, smashing a blistering fifty.

Phil Salt’s Fifty and Dismissal

Phil Salt reached the fifty-run mark in just 25 deliveries, exhibiting aggressive batting against Punjab Kings’ bowling attack. However, his innings ended when Punjab’s stand-in captain, Sam Curran, clean bowled him with a toe-crushing yorker during the 13th over of KKR’s innings.

See Also: IPL 2024: Another blistering start from Narine-Salt against PBKS

Curran’s Remarkable Comeback

Sam Curran’s over started poorly, with Phil Salt hammering him for two successive sixes. However, Curran made a remarkable comeback, delivering a perfect yorker to uproot Salt’s off stump. Despite Salt’s aggressive response, Curran’s precise bowling effectively dismissed the dangerous batter. Philip Salt b Sam Curran 75(37) [4s-6 6s-6]

Salt’s Reaction to Dismissal

After getting out, Phil Salt expressed disappointment by slamming his head angrily while returning to the dugout. His frustration was evident, reflecting his desire to capitalize on the solid start he provided to KKR’s innings.

Records Set by Salt in IPL 2024

Phil Salt achieved a significant milestone in IPL 2024 by scoring 500 runs in the fewest balls among foreign batters. His feat places him among the elite in IPL history and highlights his impact as a dynamic opener for KKR.

Least balls taken to 500 runs in IPL by Foreign batters

260 – Glenn Maxwell
284 – Travis Head
294 – Andre Russell
297 – Phil Salt*
298 – Henrich Klaasen

Salt’s explosive innings and Sunil Narine’s contribution provided KKR with a dream start to their innings. Their aggressive batting set the tone for a formidable total, laying a solid foundation for the middle order to build upon.

KKR’s Highest Total in IPL 2024

Riding on scintillating knocks from Salt and Narine, KKR registered their highest Indian Premier League total in Kolkata during the IPL 2024 match against Punjab Kings at Eden Gardens. The impressive batting display showcased KKR’s dominance in the game. PBKS need 262 to win the match in 20 overs.

Sunil Narine and Phil Salt set the stage on fire with their explosive batting performance for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Match 42 of IPL 2024 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, against Punjab Kings.

Narine and Salt’s Explosive Partnership

In a display of aggressive batting, Sunil Narine and Phil Salt propelled KKR to a blistering start after Sam Curran, the Punjab Kings’ captain, chose to field first. Their fearless approach saw KKR racing to 70 runs off just five overs, courtesy of their explosive hitting that left the opposition reeling. They have added 137 runs in 10 overs.

See Also: Mitchell Starc unavailable for KKR vs PBKS today; Here’s why

Highest scores after first 10 overs of an IPL innings
158/4 – SRH vs DC, Delhi, 2024
148/2 – SRH vs MI, Hyderabad, 2024
141/2 – MI vs SRH, Hyderabad, 2024
138/4 – DC vs SRH, Delhi, 2024
137/0 – KKR vs PBKS, Kolkata, 2024
135/1 – KKR vs DC, Visakhapatnam, 2024

Highest partnerships for KKR in the IPL (any wicket)
184* – Gautam Gambhir & Chris Lynn vs GL, Rajkot, 2017
158 – Gautam Gambhir & Robin Uthappa vs RPS, Pune, 2017
152* – Gautam Gambhir & Jacques Kallis vs RR, Jaipur, 2011
138 – Sunil Narine & Phil Salt vs PBKS, Kolkata, 2024
136 – Manvinder Bisla & Jacques Kallis vs CSK, Chennai, 2012 final
The 138-run partnership between Narine and Salt was the 8th 100-plus opening stand for KKR in the IPL, and the first since 105 between Narine and Lynn against RCB in Bengaluru back in 2017.

Highest run-rates for a 100-plus opening stand in the IPL
20.68 – 131 off 38 – Travis Head & Abhishek Sharma (SRH) vs DC, Delhi, 2024
17.02 – 105 off 37 – Chris Lynn & Sunil Narine (KKR) vs RCB, Bengaluru, 2017
14.86 – 109 off 44 – Brendon McCullum & Dwayne Smith (CSK) vs MI, Mumbai WS, 2015
13.36 – 147 off 66 – Chris Gayle & Virat Kohli (RCB) vs PBKS, Bengaluru, 2016
13.35 – 138 off 62 – Sunil Narine & Phil Salt (KKR) vs PBKS, Kolkata, 2024

Phil Salt’s Dominance Against Harshal Patel

Phil Salt’s onslaught against Punjab Kings’ bowler Harshal Patel was a sight. With relentless aggression, Salt targeted Patel’s deliveries, dispatching them to the boundary with ease. His ability to find gaps and unleash powerful shots showcased his prowess as a destructive opener. Phil Salt reaches the fifty-run mark in 25 deliveries.

Least balls taken to 500 runs in IPL by Foreign batters

260 – Glenn Maxwell
284 – Travis Head
294 – Andre Russell
297 – Phil Salt*
298 – Henrich Klaasen

Narine’s Contribution to the Partnership

Sunil Narine complemented Salt’s ferocity with his brand of power-hitting. Narine’s fearless approach saw him taking charge against Kagiso Rabada, smashing boundaries and sixes to disrupt the opposition’s plans. His contribution added impetus to KKR’s innings, setting the tone for a formidable total.

Most runs in the Powerplay in IPL 2024
259 – Travis Head (SR: 229.20)
216 – Virat Kohli (SR: 155.39)
204 – Sunil Narine (SR: 177.39)
201 – Abhishek Sharma (SR: 233.72)
193 – Phil Salt (SR: 175.45)

Impact on KKR’s Innings

The explosive partnership between Narine and Salt piled pressure on the opposition and injected momentum into KKR’s batting lineup. Their aggressive batting laid a solid foundation for the middle order to capitalize on, putting KKR in a commanding position in the match.

Lucknow Super Giants‘ fast bowler, Mayank Yadav, is on the verge of returning to action after being sidelined due to injury. LSG’s assistant coach S Sriram provides an update on Mayank Yadav’s recovery process, his recent bowling status, performance analysis, and support for his development in IPL 2024.

Update on Mayank Yadav’s Bowling Status

According to LSG’s assistant coach, S Sriram, Mayank Yadav has resumed bowling in the nets and is “pretty close” to returning to action. Sriram expressed optimism about Mayank’s progress, stating that his participation in the upcoming match against Rajasthan Royals would depend on how he pulls up after the practice session.

See Also: Mitchell Starc unavailable for KKR vs PBKS today; Here’s why

“He’s bowling today in the nets,” Sriram said on the eve of LSG’s match against Rajasthan Royals on Saturday. “So we’ll find out how he pulls up after today, he’s pretty close, so ya hopefully, fingers crossed.”

Mayank Yadav’s Performance in IPL 2024

Mayank Yadav made an impressive debut in IPL 2024, showcasing his talent with a three-wicket haul against Punjab Kings. He continued his stellar performance by claiming another Player of the Match award in the next game against RCB, displaying consistent speeds above 150 kph. However, his campaign was interrupted when he walked off the field due to abdominal soreness after bowling just one over against Gujarat Titans, causing him to miss four subsequent matches.

“I think he’s a pretty grounded person, I’ve just worked with him for the last month or so. He seems very mature and he knows his body well, which is very good for a young rookie fast bowler. I think coming from Delhi he has that cricket culture with him. He knows how to look after himself, he has a good cricketing sense in terms of the areas he bowls in, his execution has been very good,” Sriram said.

“More than the pace that he’s provided I think his execution and the lengths that he’s hit have been standout for me. The number 155 is a by-product of his rhythm and the run-up speed and the arm speed, but accuracy with which he’s bowled has stood out and for me that is critical.”

Evaluation of Mayank Yadav’s Bowling Prowess

Mayank Yadav’s bowling prowess has garnered attention, particularly his ability to bowl above 150 kph consistently. Despite his impressive pace, experts emphasize his accuracy and execution as standout qualities. Former West Indies fast bowler Ian Bishop highlighted the need for investment in Mayank’s development, emphasizing the importance of nurturing his talent and managing his injury history.

Support for Mayank Yadav’s Development

Cricket experts, including Ian Bishop, advocate investing in Mayank Yadav’s career to maximize his potential. Suggestions include providing personalized strength-and-conditioning training, access to medical and dietary support, and continuous monitoring of his progress. Such investments aim to ensure Mayank’s long-term success and mitigate the risk of further injuries.

LSG’s Current Position in IPL 2024

Lucknow Super Giants currently occupy the fourth position in the IPL 2024 points table, with five wins in eight matches. Their recent victories against Chennai Super Kings have boosted their confidence as they prepare to face Rajasthan Royals in their upcoming home game.

PBKS vs KKR Match Preview

Punjab Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders square off in the second match of the 2023 Indian Premier League. With the Kings finishing just two places above the Knight Riders, they will face the seventh-placed side in this matchup. Last year’s sixth-place squad will be playing this team. Prior to this year’s competition, both will aim for the playoffs. The Punjab Kings have placed sixth for the previous four years, but they appear to have assembled a really strong team for this competition. They ought to possess sufficient talent to open this game strong. In terms of their hitting going into this new season, Kolkata Knight Riders do appear a little underprepared. In this first encounter, we anticipate them to have difficulty.

PBKS vs KKR Match Details

Punjab Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders – 2nd Match

Venue: Punjab Cricket Association stadium – Mohali

Date & Time: 01st April 2023 at 03:30 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Star Sports

PBKS vs KKR Venue Stats

PBKS vs KKR Pitch Report

There is always something in this pitch for batters as well as quick and spin bowlers. A par total in this game will be around 175-180.

PBKS vs KKR Weather Report

Looking at the weather forecast, we can expect rain to disrupt the game at Mohali. There is a 45-50% chance of rainfall shown in the weather prediction and the wind speed is expected to be around 11 km/h.

PBKS vs KKR Last Five Matches

PBKS vs KKR Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

PBKS vs KKR Probable Playing XIs:

Punjab Kings Probable Playing XIs

Shikhar Dhawan (c), Bhanuka Rajapaksa (wk), Harpreet Singh, Sam Curran, Sikandar Raza, Shahrukh Khan, Harpreet Brar, Rahul Chahar, Arshdeep Singh, Nathan Ellis, Raj Bawa

Kolkata Knight Riders Probable Playing XIs

N Jagadeesan (wk), Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Nitish Rana (c), Rinku Singh, Venkatesh Iyer, Andre Russell, Shardul Thakur, Tim Southee, Umesh Yadav, Lockie Ferguson, Varun Chakravarthy

Topmost Picks for PBKS vs KKR Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Punjab Kings

• Shikhar Dhawan- only Virat Kohli has scored more IPL runs than the Punjab Kings skipper. He has hit the most fours of any player in the history of the competition.
• Sam Curran- the short left-handed batting and bowling all-rounder won the Player of the Series Award in the 2022 T20 World Cup. He is a natural stroke maker.

Top Picks – Kolkata Knight Riders

• Rahmanullah Gurbaz- the Afghanistan opener is from a generation of players who only know how to attack in this format of the game.
• Shardul Thakur– the bowling all-rounder has become a consistent international performer for India over recent years. He has 82 wickets across his IPL career.

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for PBKS vs KKR Dream11 Team:

Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Shikhar Dhawan(C), Nitish Rana, Venkatesh Iyer, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine(VC), Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Tim Southee, Arshdeep Singh

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for PBKS vs KKR Dream11 Team:

Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Shikhar Dhawan, Nitish Rana, Shakib Al Hasan, Andre Russell(C), Sunil Narine, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone(VC), Nathan Ellis, Shardul Thakur

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Shikhar Dhawan, Andre Russell

Vice-captain – Sunil Narine, Liam Livingstone

Wicketkeeper – Bhanuka Rajapaksa

PBKS vs KKR Probable Winners:

Despite finishing in the middle of the table last year, both teams played in a number of exciting and entertaining matches throughout the tournament. Rajapaksa, who has a top T20 score of 100, will look to attack from the first ball. We anticipate a competitive game with no one team running away with the game too early. Overall, we believe the Punjab Kings have more match-winners with the bat and the ball. Considering the team combination, Punjab Kings is expected to win this match.

Punjab Kings come in with a new captain and a new coach yet again. Shikhar Dhawan takes the reins this time as Punjab looks to make the playoffs for the first time since 2014. On the other side, KKR is struggling with injuries of their own as Shreyas Iyer misses out with a back injury leaving Nitish Rana to lead the side.

PBKS vs KKR Match Details

Date: April 1st, 2023

Time:  3:30 PM IST

Venue: Mohali

PBKS vs KKR Weather Report

Dry weather and a lot of heat are expected while dew could also play a role as the game progresses.

PBKS vs KKR Pitch Report

Big outfields and a flat pitch are usually what connects with the Mohali track. The same could be said about the upcoming game as well with Mohali good for sides batting second.

PBKS vs KKR Head-to-Head

PBKS vs KKR Predicted Playing XI

PBKS Playing XI

Shikhar Dhawan, Prabhsimran Singh, Bhanuka Rajapaksha, Jitesh Sharma, Sikandar Raza, Shah Rukh Khan, Sam Curran, Rishi Dhawan, Harpreet Brar, Rahul Chahar, Arshdeep Sharma

KKR Playing XI

N Jagadeeshan, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Venkatesh Iyer, Rinku Singh, Nitish Rana, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Shardul Thakur, Lockie Ferguson, Varun Chakravarthy, Umesh Yadav

PBKS vs KKR Key Players

Sikandar Raza

Sikandar Raza finally gets an IPL deal. He has been in really good form over the last two years and deservedly got his call-up. Now, with Sikandar Raza likely to fight for his spot with Liam Livingstone, opportunities may be few and that will leave Raza with a lot to do.

Nitish Rana

Nitish Rana has been with the Knight Riders for a really long time and is a vital part of their line-up. Now, with an interesting turn of events, Rana will be leading the side. His batting form has been good over the last couple of years and it will be interesting to see what leadership does to his batting.

PBKS’s Top Five Batters Last Season

KKR’s Top Five Batters Last Season

PBKS’s Top Five Bowlers Last Season

KKR’s Top Five Bowlers Last Season

PBKS vs KKR Rivalries to Watch out For

Arshdeep Singh vs Andre Russell: KKR’s premier finisher vs a death bowler who can nail yorkers with ease is a match-up to watch out for. They have only faced off for six deliveries with Andre Russell taking him for 16 runs and also getting out to him once.

PBKS vs KKR Match Tips

Both PBKS and KKR have injury concerns and new captains. Going by team balance PBKS look stronger still, but KKR is not a team to take likely, and with their impact players, they could create some surprises.

Match Prediction: Kolkata Knight Riders Win the Match