IPL 2024: PBKS vs RR Match 27 - Top 3 player battles to watch out for

Punjab Kings (PBKS) are set to lock horns with Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Match 27 of the IPL 2024. The two will clash at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, Chandigarh on Saturday, April 13. It is noteworthy that both teams are heading into this game after a loss in their respective previous encounters.

Royals were on a roll after winning all four matches but suffered a narrow defeat against Gujarat Titans (GT) in their last. However, they are still ruling the points table, while PBKS are reeling at eighth position. Shikhar Dhawan and his men put up a valiant effort in their last two matches, but only one went in their favour.

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While Shashank Singh and Ashutosh Sharma’s swashbuckling knocks are promising signs for the hosts, without a collective effort, they will hardly taste success. PBKS and RR have crossed paths in 26 IPL matches, with the latter winning 15 times. It will be important for RR to regain their winning momentum and for PBKS to gain control before things get out of hand. So, expect an exciting affair.

Here are the top three player battles to watch out for in IPL 2024: PBKS vs RR, Match 27 -

3. Shikhar Dhawan vs Trent Boult

Shikhar Dhawan and Trent Boult will open proceedings for their respective teams in their respective fields. The duo encountered just 77 deliveries in the IPL, with Dhawan scoring 86 runs and Boult dismissing once. The PBKS skipper is currently not in top form and the left-arm pacer may win the battle.

Dhawan managed just 152 runs in five matches and struggled to get going inside the powerplay. Boult is in good form and continues his habit of taking wickets early in the innings. It will be interesting to see how the Punjab opener copes with the Kiwi seamer's intimidating swing deliveries.

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2. Jos Buttler vs Kagiso Rabada

Jos Buttler is someone who dons the openers' hat for the Royals, while Rabada is usually seen bowling at the top. Buttler has scored 47 off Kagiso Rabada at a strike rate of 162.06, but the latter has not allowed his rival to dominate him thoroughly. The South African has got rid of the RR opener twice in the league's history. 

Buttler's form has been a concern for Royals, but the right-hander proved he is not completely out of touch by hitting a match-winning century against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. PBKS will be aware of the threat the Englishman can pose if he finds rhythm, and they will rely on Rabada to get the job done early.

Also Check: IPL 2024 Most Wickets

1. Shashank Singh vs Yuzvendra Chahal

Shashank Singh and Yuzvendra Chahal have never faced off in the IPL, but the stage is now set for an exciting battle. Shashank is Punjab's dominant force in the batting line-up, thanks to his heroics in the last two matches. Meanwhile, Chahal is RR's key weapon to bring down the villain.

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The veteran leg-spinner operates in the middle overs and can even contribute in the death overs. Chahal, currently the joint-highest wicket-taker (10 scalps), will aim to keep the right-hander quiet in this phase.