PBKS vs MI IPL 2024: Punjab Kings played their last Indian Premier League (IPL) match without their talismanic captain Shikhar Dhawan, who had to sit out the game due to an injury. PBKS struggled massively with the bat, posting only 147/8 in 20 overs and eventually losing to Rajasthan Royals.
It would be an understatement to say that PBKS missed batsman Dhawan more than the leader, as the Punjab team lacks a cutting edge in the batting department, with no other big name in Punjab’s Playing XI other than him and Jonny Bairstow, who is nowhere near his best.
Also Read: PBKS vs MI Match Prediction
PBKS vs MI IPL 2024: Will Shikhar Dhawan Play Today’s IPL Match Against Mumbai Indians?
After the three-wicket defeat against the Royals, Punjab Kings‘ Head of Cricket Development Sanjay Bangar provided a significant update on the availability of their captain. The former Indian coach said that Dhawan is carrying a shoulder injury and might take some time to heal. It’s a massive setback for the Punjab team ahead of their big home encounter against the Mumbai Indians.
“We have to wait and see how he responds to the treatment. At the moment, it seems that he could be out of action for at least seven-ten days,” said Bangar on Dhawan’s injury.
Also Read: PBKS vs MI Dream11 Prediction
PBKS vs MI IPL 2024: Punjab Kings’ Playing XI In Shikhar Dhawan’s Absence
Shikhar Dhawan is irreplaceable in Punjab Kings‘ playing XI. He is by far their best batsman, and finding his replacement is a tough job for PBKS management.
After Dhawan missed Punjab’s last match against the Royals, Atharva Taide was named as his replacement in PBKS’ playing XI. The 23-year-old impressed during his short stay on the pitch, scoring 15 runs off just 12 balls. He is likely to be given another opportunity and should open the innings alongside Jonny Bairstow. Here’s how PBKS might line up without Shikhar Dhawan.
PBKS Expected Playing XI – Atharva Taide, Jonny Bairstow, Prabhsimran Singh, Jitesh Sharma, Shashank Singh, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Ashutosh Sharma, Harshal Patel, Kagiso Rabada, Arshdeep Singh, Harpreet Brar (IMPACT PLAYER)
