The stage is set for a high-stakes encounter as Punjab Kings (PBKS) prepare to host Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match no. 66 of IPL 2023 on 19th May.
The beautiful Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala will be the battleground for this virtual quarterfinal, where both teams are desperate for a victory to keep their IPL 2023 playoff hopes alive.
PBKS faced a heart-wrenching defeat in their last outing against Delhi Capitals at the same venue. Despite a valiant effort in a high-scoring chase, they fell short of the target.
This loss has made their path to qualification tougher, intensifying the pressure on them in this crucial match against RR. They are aware that a victory is required if they want to have any chance of making the playoffs.
Similarly, RR is in a position where they must win in order to guarantee their spot in the playoffs. It’s a game that both teams absolutely must win because they are tied at 12 points each. The result of this match will significantly affect the IPL 2023 points table.
Know the three players who stand out as top options when choosing the captain of your fantasy team.
Liam Livingstone (PBKS)
For PBKS in IPL 2023, Liam Livingstone has been an outstanding player. He has developed into a key player for his squad thanks to his powerful hitting style and all-around abilities. He displayed his talent in his last match at Dharamshala by scoring 94 runs off just 48 deliveries.
He has played eight games so far, scoring 270 runs in total, at an astounding strike rate of 170.88, and an amazing average of 38.57. Livingstone is a great choice to lead your fantasy team because of his capacity for both rapid runs and wicket-taking.
Yashasvi Jaiswal (RR)
In the IPL 2023, Yashasvi Jaiswal has emerged as one of the most promising young players. The batsman for the Rajasthan Royals has been in excellent form, regularly putting in strong performances.
He has recorded a half-century and a century in his last five games, demonstrating his capacity to score big runs. Jaiswal has been a consistent run-scorer for RR, scoring 575 runs in 13 games with an average of 47.91 and a strike rate of 166.18.
His consistency and hunger for runs make him a strong contender for the captaincy role in your fantasy team.
Sanju Samson (RR)
Sanju Samson, the captain of RR, has been a consistent performer with both the gloves and the bat. As a wicketkeeper-batsman, Samson brings added value to your fantasy team. He has made valuable contributions with the bat, scoring 30-plus runs in three out of his last five outings.
In his 13 innings, he has accumulated 360 runs at an average of 32.72 and a strike rate of 154.5. Samson’s ability to anchor the innings and play impactful innings makes him a reliable choice as the captain of your fantasy team.
Also Read: IPL 2023 Qualification Race: How Mumbai Indians (MI) Can Make It To The Playoffs
