IPL 2024 - Fans question Harshal Patel's selection in PBKS squad? Pacer continues expensive spell

Match 17 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 between Gujarat Titans (GT) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad saw bowler Harshal Patel conceding 44 runs and taking only 1 wicket in his 4 overs. The pacer bowled three wides in his four overs, resulting in an economy of 11 runs per over. Interestingly, all the extras were delivered in his last over, during which he was also hit for a six and a four.

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Seeing the once-upon-a-time purple cap holder struggling to contain runs as he has gone on to give 11+ runs per over in all games so far has angered fans, with many even questioning why he was included in the playing XI by PBKS.

As for the clash, GT finished their innings at 199 in 20 overs after losing 4 wickets. Skipper Shubman Gill led from the front, scoring an unbeaten 89 and has currently scored the highest individual score in a game for IPL 2024. 

His opening partner Wriddhiman Saha (11) was dismissed early, but Kane Williamson (26), Sai Sudharsan (33), and Rahul Tewatia (23*) all played crucial cameos barring Vijay Shankar (8). For PBKS, Kagiso Rabada picked up two wickets, conceding 44 runs, while Harpreet Brar and Harshal Patel took one wicket each.

Regarding the two teams, the Titans have begun their campaign under the leadership of their new skipper on a promising note. They secured a remarkable victory against Mumbai Indians (MI) at home but suffered a defeat against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at Chepauk. Nevertheless, they made a comeback at home against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).

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In contrast, the Kings have displayed inconsistency as they started with a victory against Delhi Capitals (DC) in their opening game at their new home ground. However, they suffered two consecutive losses away from home against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).

Teams:

Gujarat Titans (Playing XI): Wriddhiman Saha(w), Shubman Gill(c), Sai Sudharsan, Kane Williamson, Vijay Shankar, Azmatullah Omarzai, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Umesh Yadav, Darshan Nalkande

Punjab Kings (Playing XI): Shikhar Dhawan(c), Jonny Bairstow, Jitesh Sharma(w), Prabhsimran Singh, Sam Curran, Shashank Singh, Sikandar Raza, Harpreet Brar, Harshal Patel, Kagiso Rabada, Arshdeep Singh