In yet another disappointment for Rajasthan Royals, the Sanju Samson-led squad lost out to Punjab Kings in match 65 of Tata IPL 2024 on Wednesday. Clinical Punjab posted a comfortable five-wicket victory at Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati. It was a low-scoring match. However, despite a target of 145, PBKS did struggle early in their chase on a sluggish pitch but Sam Curran’s composed half-century (63 not out off 41 balls) powered the visitors to victory with support from Jitesh Sharma (22 off 20 balls).
Rajasthan’s innings saw Riyan Parag top-scoring with 48 runs, but they struggled to accelerate against Punjab’s disciplined bowling attack. Punjab were able to restrict RR at a sub-par total of 144 for nine. Sam Curran (2/24) and Harshal Patel were instrumental in restricting RR batters.
Although Sanju Samson and Tom-Kohler Cadmore stitched a 36-run partnership, Rajasthan’s innings lacked momentum. Ashwin (28 off 19 balls) and Parag tried to accelerate, but regular wickets hindered their progress.
What this means for RR is that they don’t have a chance to finish as table toppers. KKR are now the table toppers and will continue to remain that. The continous losses break the momentum of the team. In the playoffs, RR will also need to find a more explosive opener in place of Jos Buttler.