The Punjab Kings’ final IPL 2024 matchup against Sunrisers Hyderabad will be led by Jitesh Sharma. The franchise made this announcement on Saturday, May 19, paving the way for a spectacular final weekend of play at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.
Jitesh takes the team’s captaincy for the first time in this match. As vice-captain at the beginning of the season, the wicketkeeper-batter moves up to take Sam Curran’s place as the team’s leader. In order to be ready for the 2024 T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies, Curran has returned to England for his international assignment.
This season, Jitesh Sharma has averaged 14.09 and struck at a strike rate of 122.05.
He has only amassed 155 runs in 13 matches, which is an unimpressive performance. He will captain Punjab Kings in what looks to be a tough game despite these difficulties.
With just ten points from 13 games, the Punjab Kings are currently ninth in the rankings, reflecting a difficult season overall for them. Days ago, their hopes of making the playoffs vanished. Interestingly, after making it to the finals in 2014, they have not qualified for the playoffs. If they defeat Sunrisers Hyderabad, though, they might climb to ninth place.
They defeated Rajasthan Royals by five wickets in their most recent league game, which was a highlight. Nathan Ellis, the Australian pacer who replaced the injured Kagiso Rabada, was instrumental. With stats of 1/24, he was the most economical bowler and got the crucial wicket of Sanju Samson, the captain of Rajasthan.
Sam Curran discussed the team’s performance after the most recent game, complimenting Ellis on his strong debut and pointing out that he probably ought to have been introduced sooner in the season. Curran acknowledged the difficult playing circumstances but said he enjoyed leading the team and loved the supportive environment.
As a team, we bowled pretty well. The takeaway was that we had a great deal of pride at stake. In his first game of the season, Ellis was outstanding. I should have probably played him sooner. Clearly pleasant. I have had a great time this season and have enjoyed being captain. The group has had a really positive atmosphere,” he stated.
Also Read: Jitesh Sharma Reviews Punjab Kings’ IPL 2024 Season
Jitesh Sharma will be the focus of attention as Punjab Kings get ready for their last game of the season to witness how he manages the captaincy. Can he guide his team to a successful conclusion? Fans are looking forward to learning.