PBKS vs DC IPL 2023: Punjab Kings eye big win against Delhi Capitals to keep playoff hopes alive | Cricket News – Times of India

NEW DELHI: Punjab Kings are determined to secure a significant victory against the Delhi Capitals in order to maintain their hopes of reaching the IPL playoffs.
The match, set to take place in Dharamsala, holds great importance for Punjab Kings, who currently sit at the eighth position in the standings with 12 points.
IPL 2023 SCHEDULE | IPL 2023 POINTS TABLE
Having experienced a mix of wins and losses throughout the season, Punjab Kings understand the significance of boosting their net run rate (NRR), which currently stands at -0.268. A recent 31-run victory against the Capitals provided them with a morale boost and a slight improvement in their NRR, giving them hope for a similar outcome in the upcoming match.

For Punjab Kings to succeed, their batting performance needs to be stronger. While opener Prabhsimran Singh displayed remarkable determination in the previous match against Delhi, contributions from other batters have been relatively limited. Shikhar Dhawan has been Punjab Kings’ standout performer with the bat, but they will require additional significant contributions from the rest of the line-up.

In addition to their batting, Punjab Kings’ bowlers need to elevate their performance. Despite possessing a sound bowling attack consisting of players like Nathan Ellis, Sam Curran, and Arshdeep Singh, Punjab Kings have struggled to defend runs on several occasions. Tightening up their bowling and ensuring effective execution of their plans will be crucial for their success against Delhi Capitals.

On the other hand, the Delhi Capitals have already been eliminated from playoff contention and have had a disappointing season overall. Their batting unit, apart from Axar Patel, has failed to consistently perform, resulting in underwhelming displays. The struggles of Prithvi Shaw and Sarfaraz Khan have been significant factors in Delhi Capitals’ difficulties, prompting the team management to rely heavily on their overseas players at the top of the order.

While the Capitals’ Indian bowlers have fared relatively better, their batting shortcomings have overshadowed their efforts. Notably, Ishant Sharma has performed well, and the return of Khaleel Ahmed has provided additional support to the bowling attack. The Capitals face the decision of whether to continue with four overseas batters at the top or bolster their bowling by including Anrich Nortje, who has returned to the team.
The spin duo of Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel has proven to be economical for Delhi Capitals, contributing to their bowling strength.

In summary, Punjab Kings are eagerly eyeing a significant victory over the Delhi Capitals to maintain their hopes of making it to the playoffs. A strong batting performance and an improved showing from their bowlers will be essential for their success.
The Capitals, already out of contention, will aim to salvage their season with a positive result.

Squads:
Punjab Kings: Shikhar Dhawan (c), Shahrukh Khan, Matthew Short, Prabhsimran Singh, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Jitesh Sharma, Gurnoor Singh Brar, Rishi Dhawan, Liam Livingstone, Atharva Taide, Arshdeep Singh, Baltej Singh, Nathan Ellis, Kagiso Rabada, Rahul Chahar, Harpreet Brar, Sam Curran, Sikandar Raza, Harpreet Bhatia, Vidwath Kaverappa, Mohit Rathee, Shivam Singh
Delhi Capitals: David Warner (c), Prithvi Shaw, Mitchell Marsh, Sarfaraz Khan, Aman Hakim Khan, Abhishek Porel (wk), Axar Patel, Khaleel Ahmed, Kuldeep Yadav, Rovman Powell, Rilee Rossouw, Anrich Nortje, Mustafizur Rahaman, Chetan Sakariya, Mukesh Kumar, Phil Salt, Lungi Ngidi, Praveen Dubey, Lalit Yadav, Ripal Patel, Vicky Ostwal, Ishant Sharma, Manish Pandey, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Yash Dhull
(With PTI inputs)

Watch IPL 2023: Punjab Kings take on Delhi Capitals in crucial clash