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The IPL 2024 clash between Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals saw English all-rounder Sam Curran represent PBKS at the toss in the absence of Indian veteran star Shikhar Dhawan. But with Curran leading Punjab, questions were raised regarding Indian wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma, who was named the vice-captain at the start of the season.
Jitesh Sharma was also part of the captains' photoshoot before the first match of the IPL. During this shoot, the official IPL social media account confirmed Sharma's appointment as the vice-captain with a tweet stating, " Presenting the 9 captains with PBKS being represented by vice-captain Jitesh Sharma."
Why is Jitesh Sharma not captaining Punjab Kings against RR?
Hence, many wondered why Jitesh wasn't leading the Punjab Kings against the Rajasthan Royals. With no official explanation issued one can speculate that Jitesh's poor form in the 2024 season could be the reason behind Sam Curran leading the side. Sharma has scored 106 runs in six innings this season and hence, PBKS may have opted to name Sam Curran as the captain.
We've got exciting players and plenty of quality: Sam Curran
Coming back to the toss, Sam Curran also confirmed the return of Liam Livingstone, who was injured in the game against the Lucknow Super Giants. Curran said, "Shikhar picked up a niggle, that's why I'm here. We would have bowled first as well, but we'll now have to put the runs on the board."
"The balance has been good, we'd have liked to win a few more games, but the middle-order looks good, especially Shashank and Ashutosh. We've got exciting players and plenty of quality. We've Atharva Taide coming in for Shikhar tonight, Livingstone is back as well," he continued.
