In the 11th match of IPL 2024, Shikhar Dhawan’s Punjab Kings (PBKS) faced a defeat against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at Ekana Stadium on March 30.
Opting to bowl first, Punjab Kings made an early breakthrough by dismissing KL Rahul and Devdutt Padikkal cheaply. However, Quinton de Kock’s resilient half-century stabilized Lucknow’s innings, followed by aggressive contributions from Nicholas Pooran and Krunal Pandya, propelling LSG to a competitive total of 199/8.
In pursuit of the challenging target, Shikhar Dhawan and Jonny Bairstow showcased promising form, forging a strong opening partnership that took Punjab Kings past the 100-run mark within 11 overs.
Despite the initial momentum in their favor, Punjab Kings faltered, managing only 178/5 as Mayank Yadav’s fiery spell, consistently exceeding 150 kmph, dismantled their chase, securing a 21-run victory for LSG.
Following the match, Punjab Kings’ captain Shikhar Dhawan expressed disappointment at Liam Livingstone’s injury, attributing it to their loss against LSG. Livingstone’s hamstring injury in the fourth over of LSG’s batting forced him off the field temporarily, affecting Punjab’s momentum.
“They played well, pity that Livi (Livingstone) got injured, that hurt us, he would have come at 4,” said Dhawan.
Dhawan also lauded Mayank Yadav’s pace, acknowledging his surprise at the debutant’s performance. He revealed his strategy during the chase, emphasizing aggressive batting against Yadav, a plan that ultimately fell short despite instructions to Bairstow and Jitesh Sharma.
After a convincing win against Delhi Capitals in their opening match, Punjab Kings suffered consecutive defeats in their subsequent games and will now take on Sunrisers Hyderabad on the 9th of April.
