IPL 2024 Playoffs: Punjab Kings out of playoffs race for 10th season in a row

Dharamshala: Punjab Kings’ captain Sam Curran reacts after being bowled by Royal Challengers Bengaluru's Lockie Ferguson during an Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 T20 cricket match between Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, at HPCA Stadium, in Dharamshala, Thursday, May 9, 2024. (PTI Photo/Ravi Choudhary) (PTI05_09_2024_000402B)

Punjab Kings saw their hopes dashed on Thursday as they were officially eliminated from contention for the playoffs in IPL 2024, marking their tenth consecutive season without a postseason appearance.

Since the inception of the tournament in 2008, Punjab Kings have struggled to secure a playoff spot, with their last appearance in the semi-finals in the inaugural season. Despite being runners-up in 2014, their playoff drought has persisted since 2015. This year, their regular captain, Shikhar Dhawan, was sidelined due to injury, leading to Sam Curran taking over as stand-in captain.

Although glimpses of brilliance emerged, with players like Shashank Singh and Ashutosh Sharma making notable contributions, Punjab Kings' inconsistency proved to be their downfall. They etched their name in history with a remarkable chase of 262 against Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens but failed to maintain momentum.

In Thursday's knockout match, Punjab Kings' batting faltered, falling short in their pursuit of RCB's target of 242 at Dharamshala. RCB clinched victory by a convincing 60-run margin, sealing Punjab Kings' exit from the tournament.

Reflecting on their campaign, stand-in skipper Sam Curran acknowledged positive strides but lamented that they fell short when it mattered most. With their elimination, Punjab Kings become the second team to exit IPL 2024, following Mumbai Indians' departure the day before.