Chennai has been a high-scoring venue this IPL season, while it has also pampered spinners. On both counts, Punjab Kings do not seem to have the right personnel and so on Sunday, when they face Chennai Super Kings, they will start the game on the backfoot.
The points table doesn’t show much of a difference between the two teams, with Punjab having just two points less than Chennai’s 10. But in reality, the performance of the two sides have been like chalk and cheese. While Chennai, despite their three defeats, have looked to be a powerful team, Punjab, although they have four wins, are a team with loopholes.
If captain Shikhar Dhawan fails to fire with the bat on Sunday, one doubts how big a total can Punjab put up or chase. Chennai, on the other hand, have had Ruturaj Gaikwad, Devon Conway, Ajinkya Rahane and Shivam Dube among runs.
On the bowling front, Punjab are a pace-heavy side with Arshdeep Singh, Kagiso Rabada and Sam Curran in the XI. But Chennai can unleash Ravindra Jadeja, Maheesh Theekshana and even Mitchell Santner on the spin-friendly Chepauk track.
Today’s match
■ Chennai Super Kings vs Punjab Kings, 3.30pm, Chennai, live on Star Sports & Jio Cinema
