The first match of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024) doubleheader saw Punjab Kings take home the 2 points after beating Delhi Capitals by 4 wickets in Mullanpur on March 23.
Put to bat first, Delhi Capitals started well with openers David Warner (29) and Mitchell Marsh (21) looking aggressive in the middle. However, both batters were dismissed by the pace duo of Harshal Patel and Arshdeep Singh respectively.
A 𝐂𝐮𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐧-𝐭 in every hit! ⚡
Sadda Starboy starts the season with a brilliant 5️⃣0️⃣! 🦁#SaddaPunjab #PunjabKings #JazbaHaiPunjabi #TATAIPL2024 #PBKSvDC pic.twitter.com/oUSkS3FKPj
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Shai Hope also tried to take the team forward with his 25-ball 33 but was sent back to the pavilion by Kagiso Rabada.
Rishabh Pant, who made his return to the sport got dropped on 4 runs by Harshal Patel and failed to utilise the chance. The wicketkeeper-batter lost a wicket with a poor shot decision and was sent back for just 18.
DC’s Impactful Decision
It was Delhi’s Impact substitute Abishek Porel (32* off 10)who caught everyone’s eye and got DC to a competitive total of 174/9 in the end. Porel scored 25 runs in the final over, sending Harshal Patel to the cleaners in the end.
In reply, Punjab skipper Shikhar Dhawan gave the home side a decent start but failed to capitalize on it. Dhawan was beaten by his former Indian teammate Ishant Sharma on just 22 in the end.
Ishant then went on to dismiss Bairstow by a smart run-out at the non-striker’s end. However, the experienced bowler limped off the pitch after injuring his ankle while fielding.
Sam Curran To The Rescue
Sam Curran came in and started to get crucial runs on the board for Punjab. His 47-ball 63 took the game away from the visitors who failed to put enough pressure on the batters. His innings was supported by Liam Livingstone as both batters helped Punjab get their opening win in the end.
It wasn’t the kind of comeback Rishabh Pant would’ve hoped for but the wicketkeeper-batter would like to take the defeat into his stride and help his side finish strong in the tournament ahead.
Also Read: IPL 2024: Punjab’s Jonny Bairstow Dismissed By Teammate’s Shot, Here’s How
