In the third game of IPL 2022, Punjab Kings will take on Royal Challengers Bangalore at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy Stadium in Mumbai. The match will happen on March 27th at 7:30 pm. PBKS will miss the services of Jonny Bairstow and Kagiso Rabada for the first few games. Hence, they will have to field a weakened XI in this encounter. On that note, in this article, we take a look at the predicted Punjab Kings playing XI for their first game against Royal Challengers Bangalore.
Openers: Mayank Agarwal (C) and Shikhar Dhawan
Mayank Agarwal and Shikhar Dhawan are set to be the openers in the Punjab Kings playing XI for their first game against Royal Challengers Bangalore. It will be a very strong partnership with both the players boasting experience and terrific skills. It would not be a surprise if, in some games, these two alone would finish matches with their performances.
Middle-Order: Prabhsimran Singh (WK), Bhanuka Rajapaksa and Shahrukh Khan
In Jonny Bairstow’s absence, PBKS will have to use an Indian wicket-keeper. Hence, Prabhsimran Singh comes into the picture. Bhanuka Rajapaksa will take the overseas spot in the XI until Jonny comes back. He is a left-hander and will be tasked with scoring runs in the middle-overs. Shahrukh Khan, unlike last season, will get a consistent run in this campaign. He will be important for PBKS at the death.
All-Rounders: Benny Howell, Liam Livingstone, Odean Smith and Harpreet Brar
Benny Howell might get a chance in the XI because of the unavailability of other foreigners. His presence will give PBKS an extended batting line-up. But if he does get selected, he must do a lot of work with the ball. Liam Livingstone will be the designated finisher while Odean Smith will also play a similar role. The West Indian should also give four overs of pace for the combination to work. Harpreet Brar may not have much to do with the bat but with the ball, he will play a crucial role.
Bowlers: Rahul Chahar and Arshdeep Singh
Rahul Chahar will be the team’s lead spinner and in Rabada’s absence, young Arshdeep Singh must deliver at the death. Both these players should have a good season if they want to get a chance with Team India.
