PBKS vs RR Review: Rajasthan beat Punjab in a low-scoring thriller

Rajasthan Royals took on Punjab Kings in Match 27 of the Indian Premier League 2024 at the MYSIC Stadium in Mullanpur on Saturday, April 13. RR won the toss and opted to field first. Atharva Taide (15 off 12) and Jonny Bairstow (15 off 19) departed after getting a start and Prabhsimran Singh (10 off 14) and Sam Curran (6 off 10) followed suit. Jitesh Sharma (29 off 24) played a handy knock and Shashank Singh (9 off 9) walked back early. With Liam Livingstone (21 off 14) and Ashutosh Sharma (31 off 16) chipping in, PBKS posted a fighting 147 for 8 runs on board.

For RR, Yashasvi Jaiswal (39 off 28) and Tanush Kotian (24 off 31) started slow. Sanju Samson (18 off 14) and Riyan Parag (23 off 18) fell prey to slower deliveries while Dhruv Jurel (6 off 11) departed trying to accelerate. Rovman Powell (11 off 5) played a crucial cameo. Shimron Hetmyer (27* off 10) displayed nerves of steel and steered RR towards a three-wicket win.

Top Performers of the Match

Shimron Hetmyer (27* off 10)

Shimron Hetmyer was introduced late and Jurel came up with the order. The batter entered when the required rate was above 10. He along with Powell batted with absolute intent. With 10 needed off the final over on a pitch that lacked pace, he delivered and scored two consecutive sixes to finish things off in style.

Keshav Maharaj (23 for 2)

Keshav Maharaj made a fitting entry to the IPL arena. He was at his miserly best in the first two overs giving away just eight runs. He picked Jonny Bairstow and PBKS’ stand-in captain Sam Curran. Every time Punjab batters eye an acceleration, he restricts them with his variations.

What’s next for both teams?

Rajasthan Royals will take on Kolkata Knight Riders in Match 31 at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on April 16. Punjab Kings will take on Mumbai Indians in Match 33 at the MYSIC Stadium in Mullanpur on April 18