The previous IPL 2023 encounter between Punjab Kings and SunRisers Hyderabad ended in a crushing loss for them. When given the opportunity to bat first, the PBKS batsmen underperformed, falling to 88/9 in 15 overs. Shikhar Dhawan, who led the team like a one-man army from the start and helped them to their total of 143/9 in 20 overs while remaining undefeated at 99 off 66 balls, was the only person who could save them. Later, SRH easily completed the target pursuit in in 17.1 overs. In addition, Dhawan, who is presently wearing the orange cap for this season, has already scored 225 runs in three games.
Mohammed Kaif, a former Indian cricketer, lauded Dhawan and dubbed him the “Khalifa of IPL” for inspiring the team as PBKS prepared for their upcoming encounter against Gujarat Titans.
The bowling of Punjab Kings is strong. In the IPL, the team with a strong bowling unit has a better chance of placing in the top four. The Khalifa of the IPL is Shikhar Dhawan. He is in great shape and inspiring his group by example. These circumstances have increased his team’s chances of having a successful season even more, Kaif stated on Star Sports.
On Thursday, the defending champion Gujarat Titans will be welcomed to PBKS’ home field in Mohali.
Liam Livingstone, the Shikhar Dhawan-led team’s star England hitter, was absent because he was seeking approval from his board regarding his injuries. He has officially joined the team’s practice after receiving the go-ahead, therefore it is anticipated that he will participate in his first game of the year against GT.
The Hardik Pandya-led team will enter this match off of a loss to the Kolkata Knight Riders, where Rinku Singh garnered attention for his heroics in the last over.
GT, who are presently fourth on the standings with four points after three games, still have a fantastic chance to win the league, but to do so, they will need to unite against PBKS, who are quickly establishing themselves as one of the hardest teams to beat.
