Punjab Kings mid-season review: Can the duo of Ricky Ponting and Shreyas Iyer finally take Punjab all the way?

Punjab Kings

have qualified for the playoffs just twice in 17 seasons, with their last appearance dating back to 2014. But judging by how they’ve played so far this season, they seem to have a real shot at finally breaking the jinx.
Hits
The biggest positive for Punjab this season has been Shreyas Iyer — both in terms of leadership and performance. He’s led from the front, scoring 257 runs at an average of 51.40 and a strike rate of 194.70, making him the top scorer for the franchise.

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Alongside him, youngster

Priyansh Arya

has impressed with 232 runs in 7 games at an average of 33.14 and an incredible strike rate of 209, including a brilliant century (103) against the Super Kings. Nehal Wadhera and Prabhsimran Singh have also chipped in with handy cameos.
Who's that IPL player?
In the bowling department, Arshdeep Singh has been their leading wicket-taker, grabbing 10 wickets at an average of 22.40 and an economy of 8.62. Yuzvendra Chahal has also found form lately, taking 8 wickets, while Marco Jansen has matched that tally with 8 wickets of his own.

Misses
The overseas duo of Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell are yet to find their rhythm this season. Both have been out of form, and Punjab Kings fans will be hoping they bounce back in the second half of the campaign.
Playoff Chances
Punjab Kings have won 5 out of their 7 games so far and now need just 3 more wins from their remaining 7 matches to secure a playoff spot. But this time, they won’t just be looking to qualify; they’ll be aiming to go all the way and finally lift the trophy.