"They Might Not Qualify": Ex-KKR Player's Bold Prediction About 'This' Team Ahead Of IPL 2023
Punjab Kings [Source: Twitter]
The biggest T20 carnival, the Indian Premier League, is only a few days away from us. With ten top-tier teams set to battle it out, the tournament promises to be a cracking one for fans around the globe.
As the teams gear up for the showpiece event, experts have started predicting their potential picks to feature in the knockouts.
While the eyes will be on the big three, Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore, teams like Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad might emerge as dark horses in the tournament.
Studded with Shikhar Dhawan, Harry Brook, Kagiso Rabada and Liam Livingstone, Punjab Kings are expected to be a team to beat in the IPL 2023.
However, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra feels despite having some superstars in their lineup, the Kings will suffer another group-stage exit this season.
As quoted by Sportskeeda, Chopra reckoned that PBKS might challenge the big teams but still end up winning the wooden spoon this year.
"Mayank Agarwal was the captain last time and Shikhar Dhawan is the captain this time. I feel this team will once again be in the qualification race. They will run, fall, stand up again but might still not qualify. There is a possibility with this Punjab franchise."
Furthermore, the ex-KKR opener predicted Shikhar Dhawan and Sam Curran to star for PBKS with bat and ball, respectively.
"Who can be the highest run-scorer for this team? Shikhar Dhawan - he is the captain and will open as well. He plays 20 overs and scores runs. Who can be the highest wicket-taker? It should be one of Sam Curran, Kagiso Rabada or Arshdeep Singh. Let's keep Sam Curran."
Led by Shikhar Dhawan, PBKS will kickstart their campaign against Kolkata Knight Riders in Mohali on April 1.
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