IPL 2022: Now, That Jonny Bairstow Hasn't Performed, PBKS Can Go Back To Bhanuka Rajapaksa - Parthiv Patel

Former Indian cricketer Parthiv Patel believes that Punjab Kings (PBKS) gave enough chances to Jonny Bairstow and can now go back to their Sri Lankan cricketer, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, who was performing well before the Englishman joined the team.

Bairstow joined the IPL after the first few matches. In his stead, Rajapaksa was impressive. The Lankan scored 83 runs in 3 games at an unreal strike rate of 230.56. On the other hand, Bairstow has scored just 41 runs in 4 games.

“When a team sits to pick their XI, they select players who have been paid higher sums as first priority for obvious reasons. They are expected to do a better job. But if such players are not performing, you need to look at others. Bairstow took Rajapaksa’s place on that basis.”

“Yes, the latter did well, but his performances weren’t exceptional to keep out the English cricketer. Rajapaksa did a good job to fill in the void in the first few games. But now that Bairstow hasn’t been performing, PBKS can definitely think of going back to Rajapaksa,” Parthiv told Cricbuzz.

“The big question is how long PBKS will wait” – Parthiv Patel

PBKS has lost the last three of their four games, particularly due to their batting department which has blown hot and cold. Changes need to be made and Parthiv is keen to see how long PBKS persists with the under-performing Bairstow.

“The big question is how long PBKS will wait for Bairstow to hit form. Remember, he came in for Rajapaksa who was in very good form. That apart, the team is settled and they have the big-name players but somehow (they are not able to perform),” Parthiv added.

PBKS will have a chance to sort their troubles when they go up against the struggling CSK side in Monday’s night game.

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