What Must PBKS Fix in Their Death Bowling Ahead of IPL 2025?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In the lead-up to a crucial IPL 2025 match, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar highlights the pressing need for Punjab Kings to rectify their death bowling flaws. With playoffs within reach, can they overcome these challenges and secure their place among the top teams?
Key Takeaways
- PBKS needs to enhance their death bowling strategy.
- Injury to Yuzvendra Chahal is a major concern.
- Arshdeep Singh is currently the leading wicket-taker for PBKS.
- Team discipline in execution is essential for success.
- Learning from losses is vital for future performances.
New Delhi, May 26 (NationPress) As the IPL 2025 showdown between Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians approaches, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar emphasizes the urgent need for the Shreyas Iyer-led squad to address their death bowling concerns.
After a lengthy 11-year absence from the IPL playoffs, a victory against MI at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Monday would position PBKS as the first team to achieve a top-two finish in the points table. However, the team is reeling from a recent inability to defend a total of 206 against the Delhi Capitals last Saturday.
Adding to their worries, leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal is sidelined due to a minor injury. Manjrekar commented, “While Punjab Kings’ batting lineup appears strong, the bowling remains a significant concern.”
“We hope for Chahal’s quick recovery, as relying on players like Omarzai for the 18th over and Stoinis for the 20th could lead to defeats in crucial matches. This aspect needs immediate improvement,” he stated during a segment on JioHotstar.
In Chahal’s absence in the match against DC, uncapped left-arm spinner Harpreet Brar performed admirably, taking 2 wickets for 41 runs, but it still wasn’t enough to avert defeat. Currently, left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh leads PBKS with 16 wickets at an economy rate of 8.70 over 13 matches.
Both Chahal and Marco Jansen have captured 14 wickets, while Brar follows with nine. After the loss against DC, PBKS captain Iyer acknowledged that the team overused bouncers and failed to follow their strategic plan.
“We weren’t disciplined in our execution. Once we assessed the pitch in the first innings, we had intended to bowl hard lengths consistently. Unfortunately, we overdid the bouncers in an attempt to take wickets. It’s a valuable lesson for the boys,” he reflected at the end of the game.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the importance of addressing weaknesses in any competitive sport. The Punjab Kings are at a pivotal moment in their IPL journey, and addressing their bowling concerns is essential for not only their playoff ambitions but also for building a resilient team culture moving forward.
NationPress
22/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is death bowling critical in T20 cricket?
Death bowling is crucial in T20 cricket as it often dictates the outcome of the match. Effective death bowlers can restrict runs during the final overs, preventing the opposing team from achieving high scores.
Who are the key bowlers for Punjab Kings?
Key bowlers for Punjab Kings include Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Marco Jansen, with Arshdeep currently leading the team's wicket tally.
What impact does Chahal’s injury have on PBKS?
Chahal's absence significantly affects PBKS's bowling strategy, as he is a seasoned leg-spinner capable of taking crucial wickets during tight matches.
