Royals Crash to Fourth Straight Loss as Curran Stars for Punjab Kings

Curran's Heroics Seal the Deal

Punjab Kings captain Sam Curran played a match-winning knock (63* off 41 balls) to chase down a tricky target of 144 set by Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati. This win lifts Punjab off the bottom of the table, but leaves Rajasthan with much to ponder after their fourth consecutive defeat.

Royals' Slow Start Costs Them Dear

Royals' batting woes continued as they got off to a slow start, managing only 38 runs in the powerplay. While Sanju Samson and Tom Kohler-Cadmore tried to stitch a partnership, wickets fell in a cluster in the middle overs, restricting them to a below-par total of 144.

Punjab Kings Survive Powerplay Scare

Punjab also had a shaky start, losing their top three batsmen within the powerplay. However, captain Curran and Jitesh Sharma (25) steadied the ship with a crucial 63-run partnership. Curran continued his good form, finishing unbeaten and guiding his team to victory with seven balls to spare.

Key Players and Bowling Highlights

• Sam Curran (PBKS): Player of the Match for his all-round performance (63* runs & crucial wickets)
• Rahul Chahar & Harshal Patel (PBKS): Took two wickets each for Punjab.
• Trent Boult (RR): Claimed another first-over wicket, his sixth of the season.
• Avesh Khan (RR): Picked up two wickets but leaked runs in his later spells.

What's Next?

• Rajasthan Royals will play their final league match against Kolkata Knight Riders in Guwahati.
• Punjab Kings will travel to Hyderabad for their next encounter against Sunrisers Hyderabad.

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