PBKS receive huge boost as Liam Livingstone reportedly available for IPL match against struggling RCB

England destructive batter Liam Livingstone is reportedly fit for the next IPL match against PBKS and could be seen in RCB dugout.

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Rohit Kumar
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Liam Livingstone

Liam Livingstone

Liam Livingstone, the explosive right-hand batter from England, has arrived late for this year's Indian Premier League (IPL) and has yet to make an appearance for his team, Punjab Kings. However, there is good news for PBKS fans as reports suggest that Livingstone could be available for the team's next match against Royal Challengers Bangalore on April 20th at the Punjab Cricket Association Stadium.

Livingstone has a proven track record in the IPL, having scored 549 runs in 23 matches so far. Last season was one of his best, where he amassed 437 runs in just 14 matches at a stunning strike rate of 182.08. In addition to his batting prowess, Livingstone can also chip in with some part-time bowling. He has taken six wickets in the IPL, all of which came in the previous season.

RCB, currently placed 8th in the IPL points table with 4 points in 5 matches, will be looking to get back to winning ways after their recent defeat against Chennai Super Kings. PBKS meanwhile are 5th in the league and have won their last match against LSG. The addition of Livingstone would mean added aggression for the Shikhar Dhawan-led side at the top of the order.

Matt Short could be the likely expulsion

Livingstone's inclusion could mean that either Matt Short or Sikander Raza may have to sit out, but the move is likely to be worth the risk. PBKS needs to improve its run rate, which is currently the lowest among all teams in the IPL, and Livingstone's ability to score quick runs could be the answer to their problems.

The Punjab Cricket Association Stadium is known for its high-scoring matches, and Livingstone's attacking style of play could be a perfect fit for the conditions. If Livingstone does make his debut for RCB in the upcoming match against PBKS, it will be interesting to see how he performs and if he can help turn around his team's fortunes in the IPL.

Indian Premier League Liam Livingstone IPL 2023 RCB