AS this year's instalment of the world’s premier cricket league approaches, attention once again turns to one of the game's most destructive 20-over batters, Barrow's Liam Livingstone.

After a winter disrupted by an injury sustained while making his England test debut in Pakistan, Livingstone will continue his comeback by once again turning out for IPL (Indian Premier League) franchise Punjab Kings.

He also played for the Kings in 2022, hitting the longest six of the tournament, a staggering 177-metre strike.

Punjab Kings suffered an underwhelming 2022 campaign on the whole, finishing sixth in the table, clocking up seven wins and as many losses.

Under the stewardship of new captain Shikhar Dhawan, the team will hope for a turnaround this year, and Indian cricket pundit Irfan Pathan believes that Dhawan's partnership with the Barrovian could be the key to a successful campaign for the Kings.

Speaking to Star Sports, Pathan said: "Liam Livingstone, according to me, is a destructive batter.

"His playing style can match Shikhar Dhawan's because Dhawan can stay calm and run the game.

"Meanwhile, if you see Livingstone, he plays like fire.

"So, if you look at it, their hot-cold combination can be very good."

"The difference that Dhawan brings is that he'll try to bring a very relaxed atmosphere to the team.

"He has captained before.

"He hasn't been very successful as captain, but that's the past.

"Now Shikhar Dhawan is an experienced Shikhar Dhawan"

Punjab Kings open their 2023 campaign with a clash against Kolkata Knight Riders on April 1.