Rajasthan Royals are set to host Punjab Kings of their first match at their ‘second’ dwelling, Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on Wednesday. Both groups are approaching the again of wins and on the again of some strong performances of their opening video games of TATA IPL 2023. The extremely anticipated encounter will redefine the rivalry between the 2 groups from the North within the North-Eastern State. Both groups are being led by dynamic captains and the battle between a younger RR skipper, Sanju Samson, in opposition to a seasoned campaigner like Shikar Dhawan – the captain of Punjab – makes the sport extra attention-grabbing.
Former India cricketer Irfan Pathan believes the ‘Gabbar of Indian Cricket’ Shikhar Dhawan – who’s mentally very robust – will probably be seeking to show his mettle as a batter, in addition to the captain. (‘Forget It Man’: Harbhajan Singh Stops Virender Sehwag From Mocking Sreesanth Over ‘Slapgate’)
Speaking to Star Sports, the official TV broadcaster of TATA IPL, Irfan Pathan, “Shikhar Dhawan is a senior player in TATA IPL and has been very consistent with the bat too. He’s a very powerful player who possesses a very strong mind. He has to prove himself as a captain this year and for that his batting is essential. Being in and out of the Indian team must have bothered him and that’s why he would like to prove that he is still the real Gabbar of Indian cricket.”
Senior Australia cricketer Steve Smith spoke extremely of Rajashthan Royals’ captain Sanju Samson for he has witnessed his journey in TATA IPL up shut. (Follow LIVE Updates of RR vs PBKS, IPL 2023 Match)
Speaking to Star Sports, the official TV broadcaster of TATA IPL, Steve Smith stated, “Sanju Samson is a young player, but he’s not a youngster in terms of the experience he’s had. He’s leading the side from the front. He led the Royals really well last year and the team made it to the final. He’ll take the confidence from the campaign last season. He’s powerful and takes the game head-on. If he keeps doing that, I think, RR will keep doing well in this season as well.”
Meanwhile, former India captain Sunil Gavaskar heaped reward upon younger Gujarat Titans batter Sai Sudharshan for his match-winning half-century in opposition to a top quality Delhi Capitals bowling assault. The legendary India opener went on to say that the gifted left-handed batter has all of the elements of a future India participant.
Speaking to Star Sports, the official broadcaster of IPL, Sunil Gavaskar stated, “He looked very composed all through his innings. He was watchful at the start and gave Anrich Nortje the respect and when his eyes were set, he played his shots against Nortje. He played smart cricket. With this performance, he’s shown that he is ready for bigger challenges. But he should tell himself that he needs to replicate such performances more often. He still needs to take those steps to reach to that top level but he’s got all the makings of being a great player. His temperament is good. He’s also an outstanding fielder, which is a big plus.”
