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IPL 2023 matchup between the Lucknow Super Giants and the Punjab Kings, with KL Rahul under investigation
Both Lucknow Super Giants and Punjab Kings, who have four victories apiece from seven games in IPL 2023, will be looking to gain some momentum for the second half of the season when they square off on Friday in Mohali.
Following LSG's failure on Saturday to successfully chase down 136 against Gujarat Titans, all eyes will once again be on KL Rahul, who hasn't been able to score at the rate he is known for.
Rahul has a strike rate of 113.91 in the competition so far, but he can undoubtedly improve.
The LSG assault has been significantly affected by pacer Mark Wood's absence, who has been sidelined since April 15 owing to sickness. The squad is hoping for an early comeback from him. Despite missing three games, Wood still leads them in wickets taken.
On the other side, Punjab Kings would want to turn things around at home after a couple of defeats. Shikhar Dhawan, the team's permanent captain, has missed the last three games owing to a shoulder ailment but may play in the LSG match.
He is healing nicely and might play tomorrow, according to a team source.
Punjab Kings, who have a history of wasting opportunities, are consciously trying to improve as the competition goes on.
Both on the pitch and in front of the camera, Sadde Shers is a natural. 💥🎥 Here is a behind-the-scenes look that is exclusive. https://t.co/NxJiWJEotF
— Punjab Kings (1682581327000, @PunjabKingsIPL)
Prabhsimran Singh and Matthew Short, the top order, must remain in the middle for a longer period of time.
While Nathan Ellis and Kagiso Rabada, who has only played in a few games so far, will need to be compared, Arshdeep Singh has excelled with both the new and old ball.
Since he has only managed to take two wickets in seven games, leggie Rahul Chahar needs to perform significantly better in the middle overs.