As the IPL 2024 league stage nears its thrilling conclusion, the Monday night clash between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Mumbai Indians (MI) in Jaipur has suddenly become a virtual knockout for a top-two finish.
For Mumbai Indians, who secured a playoff berth with a clinical win over Delhi Capitals, the road to the top two had seemed far-fetched. But in true IPL fashion, the tables have turned. Consecutive losses for Gujarat Titans, coupled with defeats for Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, have reopened the door. Now, all MI need is a win on Monday to leap into the top two.
For PBKS, this match holds historic weight. A win tonight would make them the first team to secure a top-two spot, that will definitely be an incredible feat after an 11-year playoff drought. However, the challenge is steep. They’re coming off a draining loss to DC on Saturday, where they failed to defend 206 and fatigue from back-to-back games in Jaipur could play a role.
PBKS vs MI Pitch and weather conditions
With 200-plus scores in seven of the last eight innings at this venue, expect another batting feast. Dew is expected to play a role in favour of the chasing side, while hot evening temperatures could test stamina.
Punjab Kings vs Mumbai Indians Predicted XIIs
PBKS Probable XII for today: Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Priyansh Arya, Josh Inglis, Shreyas Iyer, Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Azmatullah Omarzai, Marco Jansen, Harpreet Brar, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal/Praveen Dubey
MI Probable XII for today: Rohit Sharma, Ryan Rickleton, Will Jacks, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Naman Dhir, Mitchell Santner, Deepak Chahar, Karn Sharma, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah
PBKS vs MI Dream11 Fantasy Team Picks
Wicktkeepers: Ryan Rickelton, Josh Inglis
Batters: Shreyas Iyer (C), Suryakumar Yadav (VC), Priyansh Arya, Rohit Sharma
All-rounders: Hardik Pandya, Marco Jansen
Bowlers: Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Trent Boult
