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'We Got So Close....' - Shikhar Dhawan Takes Positives After Shashank, Ashutosh's Blinders

Ashutosh and Shashank took the game to last over for PBKS (AP Photo)Ashutosh and Shashank took the game to last over for PBKS (AP Photo)

The Pat Cummins' show continues in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024) as Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) secured their third win of the season under his captaincy. 

Despite having the same number of wins as Chennai Super Kings (CSK), who currently occupies the fourth position, SRH sits at fifth place due to net run rate.

Punjab Kings suffered a narrow two-run defeat at their home ground, the Mullanpur Stadium. Chasing a target of 183 runs, Punjab lost wickets early, finding themselves at 20 runs with 3 wickets down. 

With just 27 balls remaining, they needed 69 runs to win with only 4 wickets in hand. Ashutosh and Shashank, two young Indian rookie batters, were at the crease. 

They made a similar effort in this game as well.  Against the odds, Shashank and Ashutosh turned the game around. In the final over, requiring 29 runs for victory, the PBKS finishers smashed 26 runs, bringing Punjab Kings agonizingly close. 

However, their valiant effort fell short as SRH emerged victorious by 2 runs. Nevertheless, the two young players of Punjab Kings showcased their never-say-die attitude, leaving a mark in this season's IPL.

PBKS captain Shikhar Dhawan spoke about the young Indian batters' fighting spirit and how they instilled hope for PBKS fans. 

"It's great to see youngsters chipping in with such consistency (on Shashank and Ashutosh). There was always hope that they could finish the game, but we got so close and that'll give us confidence going into the future games, but we'll have to do better going ahead."

With Tuesday's loss, Punjab Kings find themselves in 6th position. A victory would have propelled them to 5th. Next up, they will face Rajasthan Royals in their upcoming game.