DC vs PBKS Preview – Delhi, Punjab seek triumph to better playoff chances

Delhi Capitals will host Punjab Kings in the 59th league fixture of the ongoing IPL 2023 season at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on Saturday, May 13. The home side are seemingly out of the race for the playoff after a damaging defeat against four-time champions Chennai Super Kings in their last outing.

David Warner’s side needs to win all their remaining matches and will need some assistance from the other teams as well if they are to finish in the top four this year. However, they can still prove to be party poopers for their upcoming opponents Punjab Kings, who are in a dogfight to seal a place in the knockout stages of the tournament.

Shikhar Dhawan’s team are headed into the fixture on the back of successive defeats in their previous two matches, with the last defeat coming against fellow contenders Kolkata Knight Riders. Anything less than a victory will be a killer blow to Punjab’s chances of making it to the final four.

Pitch and Conditions

The previous match at this venue saw the chasing team make a mockery of a stiff target, scaling a target of in excess of 180 runs in just over 16 overs. The surface in Delhi is an absolute belter, and the fans can expect another run-fest at the venue.

Venue details: Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi

Last T20 match at the venue: RCB- 181/4 (20 overs) DC- 187/3 (16.4 overs)

Here’s the probable playing XI for Delhi Capitals vs Punjab Kings:

Delhi Capitals

The Delhi-based franchise’s struggles at the top of the order have been well-documented this season along with a depleted middle-order. David Warner’s form has been a concern throughout the tournament, and he will need to take the initiative with nothing to lose in the upcoming matches.

Punjab Kings

Shikhar Dhawan’s side have struggled with the ball in the last couple of matches despite a spirited performance by the batters. The Punjab-based outfit will hope for big innings from Liam Livingstone, who has shown glimpses of his talent after returning to the side this season