IPL 2024, Match 37: Punjab Kings vs Gujarat Titans Match Preview

Gujarat Titans. (Source -IPL)

The upcoming clash between Punjab Kings and Gujarat Titans feels like a make-or-break moment, considering their low positions on the points table. Both teams have only secured two and three wins respectively out of seven games, leaving them in a precarious situation. Their performances with both bat and ball have been lacklustre, failing to execute skills effectively.

Gujarat Titans seem to lack the champion mindset and team unity they’ve had in previous seasons. Despite Punjab’s impressive bench strength, they struggle to deliver their best on the field. Rebounding from this slump to reach the playoffs seems like a daunting task. It’s evident that neither team has been able to put together a complete performance so far.

Pitch Report – Maharaja Yadavindra Singh Cricket Stadium, Chandigarh

The previous four matches at this venue have been nail-biters, with winning teams narrowly edging out their opponents. The pitches here aren’t exactly batting paradises, with scores typically ranging from 150 to 190. Teams have struggled to surpass the 200-run mark, often losing momentum in the middle overs. The forecast predicts sunny weather, although temperatures might dip slightly as the night progresses.

Probable Playing XI

Punjab Kings (PBKS)

Punjab Kings’ batting, particularly their top order, has been a letdown in the initial half of the tournament. With Shikhar Dhawan sidelined by a shoulder injury and Jonny Bairstow struggling for form, they sought a new opening combination. However, their experiment with Atharva Taide in the last match failed. Rilee Rossouw, stepping in for Bairstow, couldn’t make an impact in his debut match of the season. Liam Livingstone also continued his disappointing form with the bat.

Predicted XI: Shikhar Dhawan (C), Atharva Taide, Rilee Rossouw, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma, Shashank Singh, Ashutosh Sharma, Harpreet Brar, Harshal Patel, Kagiso Rabada

Impact Player: Arshdeep Singh

Gujarat Titans (GT)

Gujarat Titans’ batting woes have been evident this season, highlighted by their dismal 89-run total against DC. Apart from Shubman Gill and Sai Sudarshan, the rest of the lineup has struggled for consistency. While Rahul Tewatia has mustered around 110 runs, others like Vijay Shankar and David Miller have failed to make a significant impact, with their form being a cause for concern halfway through the tournament.

Predicted XI: Shubman Gill (capt), Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Kane Williamson, Sai Sudharsan, David Miller, Rahul Tewatia, Shahrukh Khan, Rashid Khan, Sai Kishore, Spencer Johnson, Sandeep Warrier.

Impact Sub: Mohit Sharma

Head-To-Head Record

Matches Played
4

Punjab Kings Won

Gujarat Titans Won