Rahul Tewatia got vital batting time in the previous game•Associated Press
In their previous game, PBKS failed to defend 222 against Rajasthan Royals. Arshdeep Singh’s figures (1 for 68), in particular, revealed the wide gulf between their batting merit and their bowling woes. On the other hand, GT showcased their bowling depth against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. While Rabada and Siraj went for runs, Rashid Khan, Arshad Khan and Jason Holder picked up seven wickets between them. Then in the chase, Rahul Tewatia walked out bereft of runs and batting time this season, like the rest of GT’s middle order. He finished off the game with a nerveless 27 not out off 17 balls.
Momentum is a fickle comfort in an IPL season. Still, GT know their back-to-back wins hold them in good stead. If they win big against PBKS, they could breach the top four on the points table. Meanwhile, PBKS need just two more wins from six remaining games to cross the 16-point mark, often good enough for a playoff spot.
Two distinct T20 philosophies will clash in Ahmedabad on Sunday evening. The two points up for grabs will matter more than how either team gets them.
