Cricket

Punjab Kings' (PBKS) IPL 2024 campaign came to an abrupt end after a disappointing 60-run defeat against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Assistant coach Brad Haddin attributed the loss to a series of costly dropped catches in the field.PBKS endured a nightmare start, dropping three catches in the first five overs. Virat Kohli, who went on to score 92 runs, was dropped twice on 0 and 10, while Rajat Patidar, who scored 55, was also dropped on 0. These missed opportunities proved pivotal as both batsmen played key roles in RCB's massive total of 241/7.Chasing a daunting target, PBKS showed some fight with Rilee Rossouw's 27-ball 61 and Shashank Singh's 37 runs in 19 balls. However, a flurry of wickets in the middle overs derailed their chase, and they were eventually bowled out for 181."100 percent we lost the match because of dropped catches," Haddin admitted at the post-match presentation. "We dropped two guys on a duck, and both of them scored big runs. That was where the game was lost."Despite the disappointing result, Haddin emphasized the positives from the season and urged the team to finish on a high note. "It is disappointing, but it should not be tough work to motivate the boys," he said. "This is one of the premier competitions in the world. It's a great opportunity to show your skills."Haddin also revealed that Kagiso Rabada's absence from the playing XI was due to illness. Stand-in skipper Sam Curran echoed Haddin's sentiments, saying the team would focus on the positives and continue to work hard."A lot of positive signs throughout the season, but not enough to get over the line, unfortunately," Curran said. "We have to keep our heads up, keep learning, and keep becoming better."