According to Wasim Jaffer, the batting coach for Punjab Kings (PBKS), speedster Kagiso Rabada is expected to be available for the team’s next encounter, while Liam Livingstone’s inclusion remains uncertain. Even though Rabada and Livingstone were absent in both games, PBKS managed to secure close victories. However, their addition would bolster the team’s strength.
Livingstone has yet to join the PBKS team in India because the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has not given him medical clearance. In December 2022, Livingstone suffered an injury while fielding for Pakistan on his Test debut, and since then, he hasn’t played any competitive cricket matches. Although the 29-year-old remains optimistic about playing in the IPL season, it is unclear when he will be available.
During the post-match press conference, Jaffer commented on the availability of their team’s overseas players, stating that Rabada will be available for the next game, but Livingstone’s status is uncertain. He added that the team would look for players who are in form and playing well, implying that the decision to select the best XI would be a good headache for the selectors.
Rabada had been on national duty as South Africa had been playing an ODI series against the Netherlands. After successfully winning the series, Rabada joined the PBKS squad in India. Nathan Ellis, who played a crucial role in PBKS’s recent victory over Rajasthan Royals, replaced Rabada as the foreign pacer.
Ellis was also awarded the player of the match for his 4/30. However, with Rabada’s return, it will be a challenge for the PBKS selectors to pick the best XI, given that both players have contributed significantly to the team’s success. Despite this, Jaffer believes that having players in good form is a good problem to have and that the franchise would look for players who are playing well.
PBKS is optimistic about Rabada’s availability but is still waiting for Livingstone to join the team. Regardless, the team’s success so far this season shows that they have a solid squad, and the selection headache ahead of the upcoming game only demonstrates the strength and depth of their squad.
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