IPL Points Table 2023: Updated After RR vs PBKS Match 8

Match 8 of the Indian Premier League saw a thrilling encounter between Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals. Even though Punjab Kings emerged victorious, the match did not tilt in anyone’s favor even till the last over. In a close encounter, Punjab held their nerves and eventually won the game by 5 runs. 

Having won the toss, Rajasthan’s skipper Sanju Samson decided to bowl first. However, the decision soon turned into a nightmare as Punjab’s openers Prabhsimran Singh and Shikhar Dhawan launched an attack from both ends. Prabhsimran set the tone for Punjab’s big total with a quick inning of 60 runs from 34 balls at the top of the order. Shikhar Dhawan took the flambeau in his hands from thereon and went on to smash all of Rajasthan’s bowlers. His favorite was Yuzvendra Chahal whom Dhawan gave special thrashing as the leg spinner went on to give away 50 runs in his four overs. Punjab Kings finished at 197 for 4 in their 20 overs while their captain Shikhar Dhawan carried the bat and remained not out on 86 runs. 

In response, Rajasthan Royals surprised everyone by sending Ravichandran Ashwin to open the batting alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. However, the stunt was shortlived as Jaiswal and Ashwin both departed cheaply. Even though wickets kept tumbling for RR, the batters did not let the run rate down and were neck to neck with Punjab’s score. Lower down the order, some brilliant hitting from Shimron Hetmyer and young Dhurv Jurel, who came in as an impact substitute, did restore Rajasthan’s hopes of winnings the game but were just not enough as the team fell short by just 5 runs. 

With this win, Rajasthan now have 4 points in 2 games and are now seated at the second spot in the points table. Rajasthan, who were actually number 2 before the game, have slipped to the fourth spot on the points table. 

Here’s the updated points table after RR vs PBKS Game 8:

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