Get ready for the 65th match of IPL 2024! Rajasthan Royals (RR) take on Punjab Kings (PBKS) at Barsapara Stadium, Guwahati on May 15th, 7:30 PM IST. This guide will help you build your Dream11 team for the clash.
RR Hold the Edge in Head-to-Head Battle
Rajasthan Royals (RR) boast a strong record against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in their IPL history. Out of 27 encounters, RR has emerged victorious in 16, while PBKS has managed to win 11.
Their most recent clash was a close one in IPL 2024. Batting first, PBKS set a target of 148, but RR chased it down with 3 wickets remaining, thanks to a solid start by Yashasvi Jaiswal.
This upcoming match is crucial for RR’s playoff push, as a win strengthens their position in the top two. Conversely, for PBKS, already eliminated, the outcome holds little consequence.
Playing Away From Home, Yet Feeling at Home
Despite the 4-hour flight from Jaipur to Guwahati, Rajasthan Royals (RR) enter their match against Punjab Kings (PBKS) with a sense of familiarity. Riyan Parag, speaking at the pre-match press conference, highlighted his comfort level with the Barsapara Cricket Stadium‘s conditions. While some players may be new to the venue, the stadium has embraced RR’s pink color scheme, creating a homey atmosphere.
Recent Struggles Cast a Shadow
However, RR’s recent form casts a shadow. After looking poised for a Playoff spot, they’ve lost three consecutive matches. While still favorites to qualify, their struggles in the final stages raise concerns.
Change of Scenery: A Welcome Distraction?
Parag believes these losses don’t reflect poorly on their overall performance. Perhaps a change of venue, following a stint in Chennai, could be a welcome change of pace. The Guwahati pitch is known for high-scoring matches, a stark contrast to the Chennai surface.
Punjab Kings: Aiming to Spoil the Party
For PBKS, already eliminated, this match is about pride. They haven’t qualified for the PlayOffs in a decade, the longest drought in the IPL. Yet, they come into the match with momentum, having won their last three away games. Their strategy: make it feel like an away game for RR despite the Guwahati crowd’s potential support.
Can RR Overcome Recent Challenges?
This match presents an intriguing battle. Can RR overcome their recent slump and secure a Playoff spot? Or will PBKS continue their winning streak and spoil the Royals’ party?
RR vs PBKS: Fantasy Cricket Match Preview
Head-to-Head
- RR dominates historically, winning 16 of 27 encounters against PBKS.
- RR recently chased down a 148-run target set by PBKS, with Jaiswal providing a strong start.
Pitch Report (Barsapara Cricket Stadium, IPL 2023)
- Batting-friendly wicket with three scores exceeding 190 runs in four innings.
- Expect a high-scoring match again.
- New-ball bowlers might get some assistance early in the second innings.
Fantasy Tips
- Top Picks:
- RR: Sanju Samson (great form), Riyan Parag (consistent), Yuzvendra Chahal & Trent Boult (proven wicket-takers)
- PBKS: Shashank Singh (most consistent batter), Harshal Patel (leading wicket-taker), Arshdeep Singh (promising pacer)
- Differential Picks:
- RR: Yashasvi Jaiswal (high potential, inconsistent)
- PBKS: Prabhsimran Singh (explosive but lacks consistency)
- Team Combination: 2-4-2-3 or 2-3-2-4 (considering wicket and player form)
Fantasy Team Recommendations
Head-to-Head/Small Leagues:
- WK: Jonny Bairstow, Sanju Samson (C)
- BAT: Rilee Rossouw, Shashank Singh, Rovman Powell, Yashasvi Jaiswal
- AR: Sam Curran, Riyan Parag
- BOWL: Yuzvendra Chahal, Trent Boult, Harshal Patel
Vice-Captain: Rilee Rossouw RR: 6 Players, PBKS: 5 Players
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Winner Takes All/Grand Leagues:
- WK: Jonny Bairstow (C), Sanju Samson
- BAT: Shashank Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ashutosh Sharma
- AR: Sam Curran, Riyan Parag
- BOWL: Yuzvendra Chahal, Trent Boult, Rahul Chahar, Arshdeep Singh
Vice-Captain: Riyan Parag RR: 5 Players, PBKS: 6 Players
Disclaimer: These are just predictions and recommendations. The final decision for your team selection rests with you. Good luck with your Dream11 team!