IPL 2024: PBKS vs SRH Match 23 - Top 3 player battles to watch out for

Match 23 of the Indian Premier League 2024 will see Punjab Kings (PBKS) taking on Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, Chandigarh. The inconsistent PBKS are currently fifth in the points table with two wins from four matches. Meanwhile, SRH are just one place ahead of their upcoming rivals with the same numbers. 

Taking into account the head-to-head records between the two teams in the league history, SRH dominates, winning 14 of the 21 encounters. The last time the two met in IPL 2023, PBKS were beaten by eight wickets in a bitter experience. This time around, SRH under the captaincy of Pat Cummins, are a much stronger unit and it remains to be seen if Shikhar Dhawan and Co can upset them in their own backyard.  

A batting unit comprising the likes of Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, Aiden Markram and Heinrich Klaasen is SRH's key strength. On the other hand, PBKS' batters have not been consistent in scoring big runs but they will ride on the confidence from Shashank Singh's majestic knock against Gujarat Titans. PBKS will hope that Kagiso Rabada's pace and Harpreet Brar's spin attack will deliver the goods for them.

Also Read: Punjab Kings' strongest predicted playing XI against Sunrisers Hyderabad

Here are the top 3 player battles to watch out for in IPL 2024: PBKS vs SRH, Match 23 - 

3. Shikhar Dhawan vs Bhuvneshwar Kumar

Shikhar Dhawan has scored 138 runs so far this season, but he has not been at his best. The veteran opener, alongside Jonny Bairstow, has been tasked with making a fiery start in the Powerplay. With the league stage entering the fifth round, the franchise will be hoping that their captain returns to his top form. 

If Dhawan stays at the crease for longer, he will score big in the anchoring role. Hence, SRH will want to get him out in the initial overs and they will assign Bhuvneshwar Kumar to do the job. Known for his swing magic, Bhuvi has good records against his countryman. Dhawan has scored 78 runs at a strike rate of less than 100 and has been dismissed twice against the right-arm pacer.

Also Check: IPL 2024 Points Table

2. Kagiso Rabada vs Abhishek Sharma

Abhishek Sharma is SRH's pocket dynamo. The 23-year-old has been one of their most reliable batters this season. The southpaw gives SRH's innings a blazing start and sets the tone for a massive total. At an incredible strike rate of 217, Abhishek has amassed 161 runs in four matches.  

It looks very difficult to stop the uncapped Indian from doing early damage but PBKS will trust their elite pacer Kagiso Rabada to do the needful. The Proteas pacer has a knack for picking up crucial wickets and will likely share an intense battle with the youngster to give his side an early advantage in the upcoming match.

Also Check: IPL 2024 Schedule

1. Harpreet Brar vs Heinrich Klaasen

Harpreet Brar is a wicket-taker and economical bowler at the same time. He is not a spin wizard but has the ability to bowl in tight spots and trouble the batters often. We have seen him picking up big wickets and providing crucial breakthroughs in the middle overs. One of the main threats for PBKS in the upcoming match is Heinrich Klaasen who is known for his seamless hitting against the spinners.

When the Proteas batter is on song, he smashes every ball over the ropes, regardless of pace or spin. PBKS will be very aware of the danger Klaasen can pose, and they will rely on Brar to silence him. How Klaasen will face Brar and who will have the last laugh will be an interesting part of the game.