Rajasthan Royals (RR) recorded their fourth successive defeat in IPL 2024 after their five-wicket loss to Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Wednesday, May 16. Sam Curran played a key role in Punjab's victory, showcasing his all-around talent with a well-made half-century and picking up two crucial wickets. It was his 63-run knock which helped PBKS to chase down a lowly target of 145 runs. Particularly concerning for Rajasthan Royals was the continued struggles of young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal. He has failed to score big in the last three matches, particularly against left-arm pacers and short deliveries. Against Punjab, he managed only a boundary on the first ball before being dismissed cheaply on the fourth ball of the over. This poor form has drawn criticism from fans on social media, with some even questioning his selection for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
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RR faced double blow for crucial tie against PBKS
RR faced a double blow in their crucial match against PBKS. Firstly, they were without their star player Jos Buttler, who departed for national duty ahead of the T20 World Cup where he captains England. This left a significant hole in the Royals' batting line-up. Secondly, Buttler's replacement, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, struggled to fill the void. Playing alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal, who also had a forgettable outing, Kohler-Cadmore managed only 18 runs off 23 balls on a slow Guwahati pitch. Unfortunately for Rajasthan, the struggles ran deeper than the opening partnership. With the exception of Riyan Parag's knock of 48, the rest of the batting order failed to capitalize, restricting them to a meager 144 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 20 overs.
Despite setting a modest target, Punjab Kings initially encountered some resistance, losing 4 wickets for just 48 runs by the 8th over. However, the heroics of Sam Curran, who played a well-composed innings of 63 runs not out, alongside Jitesh Sharma's valuable contribution of 22, ensured a comfortable victory for the Kings.
PBKS will also see key players depart before their final group stage match. Captain Sam Curran and Jonny Bairstow will be joining the England camp for the T20 World Cup. However, this loss is less impactful for Punjab since they've already been eliminated from playoff contention.
Sanju Samson-led RR, on the other hand, are in a much tougher spot. They've secured a playoff berth but are fighting to hold onto the crucial number two position. To make matters worse, their final group stage match is against the table-topping Kolkata Knight Riders.
Irfan Pathan lashes out at Buttler amidst RR's losing streak
Meanhilw, amidst RR's lacklustre performance in the past few matchs, former India's star all-rounder Irfan Pathan minced no words and voiced his opinion on this situation. He took to X and questioned key players leaving teams right before the crucial knockout stages of the IPL.
“Either be available for full season or don’t come!” Irfan wrote.
The players leaving the IPL 2024 midway for national duties extends beyond Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings. Royal Challengers Bangalore, who staged a dramatic comeback in the second half of the season to boost their playoff hopes, will also lose their star batter Will Jacks before their final group stage match against Chennai Super Kings.
Playoff drama
Punjab's victory has thrown the race for second place wide open. Both Chennai Super Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad are now in the running. The team that finishes second will play in the first qualifier, with the winner advancing directly to the finals. While their chances are slim, Delhi Capitals and Lucknow Super Giants haven't mathematically ruled themselves out of the playoff race just yet.
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