PBKS vs DC Live Score: After the opening clash of the league being played on Friday in Chepauk, the weekend cricketing extravaganza will begin with Punjab Kings locking horns with Delhi Capitals in the first double-header of the IPL 2024 in Mullanpur. Both the teams had a forgetful season in IPL 2023 & overcoming the shortcomings of the past they will aim to kickstart their campaign on a winning note. Both the teams know that winning is crucial in this match & they will put their every effort to emerge victorious in this clash.
PBKS vs DC TEAMS PREVIEW
Punjab Kings Preview:
Punjab Kings, formerly known as Kings XI Punjab, have been on a rollercoaster ride in the IPL, with only one top-five finish since their runner-up performance in 2014. Despite the lack of silverware, the franchise has been a perennial contender, often showcasing flashes of brilliance. However, the 2023 season was a forgettable one for Punjab, as they struggled to find consistency and failed to make a significant impact.
Heading into IPL 2024, Punjab Kings will be hoping for a fresh start and a chance to redeem themselves. Led by the experienced Shikhar Dhawan, who brings not only leadership but also formidable batting prowess, Punjab Kings will rely heavily on his expertise to steer the team to success. Alongside Dhawan, the explosive English batsman Jonny Bairstow adds firepower to the top order, capable of changing the game’s complexion with his aggressive strokeplay.
While the batting department seems potent with the likes of Dhawan and Bairstow, Punjab Kings’ bowling lineup is equally formidable. With the dynamic duo of Nathan Ellis and Kagiso Rabada spearheading the pace attack, supported by the talented Arshdeep Singh and the experienced Harshal Patel, Punjab boasts a well-rounded bowling unit capable of dismantling any batting lineup.
Despite the challenges faced in the previous season, Punjab Kings remain optimistic about their prospects in IPL 2024. With a blend of seasoned campaigners and promising young talent, they aim to turn their fortunes around and make a strong statement in the tournament.
Delhi Capitals Preview:
Under the astute guidance of coach Ricky Ponting, Delhi Capitals have emerged as a formidable force in the IPL, consistently challenging for the title in recent years. While they fell short of clinching the trophy in the 2020 season, finishing as runners-up, Delhi Capitals have showcased a brand of cricket that is both entertaining and effective.
Heading into IPL 2024, Delhi Capitals will be eager to build on their past successes and make a strong bid for the championship title. With a squad boasting a mix of seasoned veterans and exciting young talent, they possess the perfect blend of experience and exuberance.
At the helm of the team is the dynamic Rishabh Pant, whose fearless approach to captaincy has won plaudits from fans and experts alike. Pant’s return to the squad after recovering from a car accident in December 2022 adds a significant boost to Delhi’s batting lineup, injecting much-needed firepower and leadership.
Backing Pant is a star-studded batting order, featuring the likes of David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, and Prithvi Shaw, all capable of turning the game on its head with their explosive strokeplay. With the bat, Delhi Capitals boast depth and versatility, capable of posting formidable totals or chasing down targets with ease.
In the bowling department, Delhi Capitals possess a formidable arsenal led by the crafty spin duo of Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav. Supported by the likes of Lalit Yadav and Khaleel Ahmed, Delhi’s bowling unit has the variety and firepower to trouble even the most accomplished batsmen.
Overall, Delhi Capitals enter IPL 2024 as strong contenders, backed by a well-balanced squad and the inspirational leadership of Rishabh Pant. With their sights set on glory, they will be eager to hit the ground running and make a statement in their opening clash against Punjab Kings.
Predicted Playing XIs
Punjab Kings
Shikhar Dhawan (c), Jonny Bairstow (wk), Atharva Taide, Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Rishi Dhawan, Harshal Patel, Nathan Ellis, Kagiso Rabada, Harpreet Brar, Arshdeep Singh
Delhi Capitals
Rishabh Pant (c), David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, Prithvi Shaw, Shai Hope (wk), Jake Fraser-McGurk, Yash Dhull, Axar Patel, Lalit Yadav, Kuldeep Yadav, Khaleel Ahmed
Pitch and Weather Conditions
The debut IPL match at Mullanpur promises a sunny day with no rainfall, and temperatures expected to soar over 30 degrees Celsius. The pitch is anticipated to have a good pace, with pundits predicting a par score of over 185.
Toss: To Bowl
In the absence of prior IPL data, uncertainty looms over pitch conditions, making the toss crucial. Both captains are likely to opt for bowling first if they win the toss.
PBKS vs DC: Winning Prediction
With the excitement of Pant’s return and the anticipation of the debut IPL match at Mullanpur, Delhi Capitals seem poised for victory. While Punjab Kings possess a varied bowling attack, their batting lineup may lack the firepower needed. Therefore, we predict a triumph for Delhi Capitals in Match 2.
We are backing Delhi Capitals to emerge victorious in this encounter, setting the tone for an exhilarating IPL season ahead!
Also read, ALP vs TVS Live Score, Match 6, Sharjah Ramadan T20 League
