Win Projections to be updated soon
Kagiso Rabada ignited the IPL 2024 encounter between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala with a sensational catch to dismiss CSK opener Ajinkya Rahane.
A Full Delivery and a Dazzling Take: Rabada Steals the Spotlight
The drama unfolded on the fifth ball of the second over. Arshdeep Singh, the young Punjab Kings left-arm seamer, sent down a full delivery, almost a yorker length, that swung into the right-handed Rahane from over the wicket. Looking to up the tempo, Rahane attempted a flick towards mid-wicket, where Rabada was stationed. What followed was a display of athletic brilliance as Rabada dived forward, snaffled the ball with a full-stretch effort, and clung on for a spectacular catch.
The sheer brilliance of the catch left everyone momentarily stunned. Even Rahane, initially hesitant to depart, questioned the dismissal. With doubts lingering, the umpires referred the decision to the third umpire. The replays confirmed Rabada’s heroics – the ball had clearly carried, and Rabada’s reflexes and technique had secured a magnificent dismissal.
This dismissal marked yet another forgettable outing for Ajinkya Rahane in IPL 2024. He has been battling for form throughout the season, failing to convert starts into substantial scores. In his 11 appearances for CSK prior to this match, Rahane has only managed to cross the 30-run mark on three occasions. His current season average just around 21, with a strike rate of around 122. This early dismissal only adds to CSK’s woes at the top of the order.
Curran Opts to Bowl First, Santner Makes IPL Debut
Earlier, Punjab Kings’ stand-in skipper Sam Curran won the toss and elected to field first, taking advantage of home conditions. Meanwhile, CSK were forced to make a change due to the departure of their leading wicket-taker Mustafizur Rahman for national duty. The Kiwi spinner Mitchell Santner stepped in as a replacement, making his first appearance of the IPL season.
The stage is set for an intriguing encounter in Dharamshala. With Rabada’s early heroics and Rahane’s dismissal, the pressure is now on CSK to rebuild their innings. Can they weather this storm and post a competitive total?
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