The skipper of the Punjab Kings, Shikhar Dhawan, could be out for at least seven to 10 days due to a shoulder injury, the team's head of cricket development, Sanjay Bangar, indicated after the narrow loss to the Rajasthan Royals. Dhawan missed the game against the Royals on Saturday night. Sam Curran led the side in his absence.

In the post-match conference, Bangar said, "He's having a shoulder injury, so he is likely to be out for at least a couple of days, I would say. Having an experienced opener, somebody like Shikhar, who has experience playing on such wickets, becomes extremely crucial (for the team).

"We have to wait and see how he responds to the treatment. At the moment, it seems that he could be out of action for at least seven to ten days.”

Jitesh Sharma was the team's representative at the captains' meet at the start of the season as Dhawan, who was down with fever, stayed back in Mullanpur.

Considering that, Curran walking out for the toss was surprising, but Bangar clarified that they were always clear about the role of Englisman in the side.