It was a week filled with standout performances for our PBKS squad, and interestingly, all these match-winning displays came against the same opponent. Nevertheless, these players have rightfully earned their spot on our Players of the Week list.
Liam Livingstone - 95* (78) vs New Zealand
We kick off with the week's finest innings, courtesy of one of our star players, Liam Livingstone. He delivered when it mattered most. With England struggling at 55/5, things looked grim, and the possibility of a low total loomed.
Livingstone rose to the occasion, playing an unbeaten knock of 95 from just 78 balls during their 34 overs. Jos Butler's team eventually emerged victorious, thanks to Livingstone's incredible composure and exemplary innings, with some crucial support from England's tailenders.
Sam Curran - 42 (35) vs New Zealand
While Livingstone stole the spotlight in the 1st ODI against New Zealand, it wouldn't have been possible without the sturdy support of Sam Curran. He played the role of an unsung hero, scoring a quickfire 42 from just 35 balls.
Curran may not have received the limelight, but our PBKS all-rounder ensured he provided substantial support to his fellow England and Punjab Kings teammate. The match-winning performances of Livingstone and Curran secured England's victory by a comfortable 79-run margin.
Jonny Bairstow - 73 (41) vs New Zealand
If Livingstone and Curran were the heroes of the 1st ODI, Jonny Bairstow was England's star in the T20I series against New Zealand. After a match-winning knock of 86 in the 2nd T20I, Bairstow repeated his heroics in the final match of the series. A win would have secured the series for Buttler’s men, but they settled for a 2-2 draw as Tim Southee's side won the match by 6 wickets.
Jonny Bairstow, however, gave England a flying start with his 73 off just 41 balls. His array of shots was a sight to behold, although sadly, the following batters couldn't capitalize on the foundation he laid.
With the ICC World Cup on the horizon, our English trio from PBKS has proven their ability to perform under pressure, a crucial trait for a major tournament like the World Cup.
