Alzarri Joseph Dropped; RCB's Probable XI For IPL 2024 Match vs PBKS

RCB lost to CSK in IPL 2024 opener [AP]RCB lost to CSK in IPL 2024 opener [AP]

On Monday, Royal Challengers Bengaluru will cross swords against Punjab Kings in a high-octane clash at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. This will be the second game of this season for RCB, as they will be looking forward to opening their account in the points table with a win. 

Regarding RCB's first match, the red brigade were humbled by the defending champions Chennai Super Kings, who chased down a 174-run target with six wickets and eight balls to spare. 

While Anuj Rawat and Dinesh Karthik struck blazing knocks, several high-profile names disappointed the RCB management through their underwhelming performance. 

Besides the batting failure of Rajat Patidar and Glenn Maxwell, the factor that went against RCB in the game was a poor display of bowling from Mohammed Siraj and Alzarri Joseph. 

Siraj blew hot and cold with respect to his line and length, while Joseph's body-line bowling backfired on him, leading to his unimpressive figures of none for 38 on an IPL return. 

So, considering this game's importance for RCB, they might consider replacing Joseph with Lockie Ferguson, who showcased exemplary form during the recently held T20I series against Australia. 

Precisely, RCB will need Ferguson's death-bowling expertise to counter Punjab's explosive finishers on Bengaluru's flat batting surface. 

However, despite recording ducks in the first game, Patidar and Maxwell will retain their spots in the playing XI, given how crucial they have been for the team's success. 


RCB's probable playing XI vs PBKS

Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis (C), Rajat Patidar, Glenn Maxwell, Cameron Green, Anuj Rawat (WK), Dinesh Karthik, Karn Sharma, Mohammed Siraj, Mayank Dagar, Lockie Ferguson

Impact players: Suyash Prabhudessai, Akash Deep, Yash Dayal, Vyshak Vijaykumar, Swapnil Singh