IPL 2024: Shimron Hetmyer helps clinch thriller as Rajasthan Royals return to winning ways against PBKS

Rajasthan Royals returned to winning ways in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season as they claimed their fifth win of the season against a resolute Punjab Kingson Saturday (April 13). The contest played in Chandigarh saw Shimron Hetmyer win a thriller having scored 27 off 10. While the win sees Rajasthan Royals stay firm at the top spot, PBKS were on the receiving end of yet another close defeat which is their fourth of the IPL 2024.

Batting first Punjab Kings did not have the best start and registered the fourth-lowest IPL 2024 powerplay total with 38/1 in six overs. Interestingly, three of the top five lowest totals are registered by PBKS at the same venue in Mullanpur. However, the team soon went from 41/1 to 70/5 and lost wicketsagainst a resolute bowling attack led by Keshav Maharaj and Avesh Khan as both scalped two wickets each.

Before being restricted for 147/8 in their 20 overs it was Jitesh Sharma’s 29 and Ashutosh Sharma’s 31 which propelled PBKS to a respectable total. Liam Livingstone also contributed 21 off 14 with a small cameo.

PBKS next take on Mumbai Indians on Thursday (April 18) before facing 2022 champions Gujarat Titans next Sunday with both matches taking place in Chandigarh. On the other hand, RR face Kolkata Knight Riders at the Eden Gardens on Tuesday.