IPL 9 Match 13, Preview: Kings XI Punjab face KKR test at home

The Kings XI Punjab would enter the field with a refreshed mindset after registering their first win of the season. With two losses at the start of the tournament, they were at a risk of getting lost in anonymity just like the last season. But, the win against Rising Pune SuperGiants comes as a breath of fresh air for the team. It is now anticipated they add another win to their kitty and place themselves as a strong contender for the playoff. But, KKR would not be an easy opposition to beat. The top order is intact and is scoring runs at their will. The bowling unit has also been magnificent and has played major roles in setting up victories for the team.

King XI Punjab:

Openers Murali Vijay and Manan Vohra seem to be in good touch. Both were the architects of Punjab’s victory in the previous game. Glenn Maxwell played a blistering 14 ball 32 run cameo to seal the game. His return to form is a good news. However, the middle order still looks fragile. Skipper David Miller and Shaun Marsh continue to remain as the only concern for the team. The Mohali track is expected to be flat and is likely to assist the batters. Fans would definitely hope for the duo to fire and return to the scoring ways. Much credit for the win in the last game goes to the bowlers, especially Mohit Sharma who was exceptional overall. Sandeep Sharma’s habit of providing early breakthroughs with the new ball has been a big positive for the team. Kyle Abbott, who swapped places with Australian Mitchell Johnson, will retain his place despite going for runs.

Kolkata Knight Riders:

Skipper Gautam Gambhir, with two wonderful fifties, is setting an example of leading from the front. Manish Pandey and Robin Uthappa are also in sublime form, providing solidity to the top order. The addition of Sunil Narine is a great boost. He made a silent comeback with an economical spell of 0/26. He remains the trump card for the KKR. Very less assistance to spin expected tomorrow which may make Gambhir opt for seam bowling all-rounder Colin Munro instead of Shakib al Hasan. Munro gives a better hard-hitting option with the bat and is also capable bowler. The only news which came from the KKR camp is fast bowler John Hastings been ruled out of the rest of the tournament due to injury.

Probable XI:

Kings XI Punjab: Murali Vijay, Manan Vohra, Shaun Marsh, David Miller (C), Glenn Maxwell, Wriddhiman Saha (WK), Axar Patel, Kyle Abbott, Mohit Sharma, Pardeep Sahu, Sandeep Sharma

Kolkata Knight Riders: Robin Uthappa (WK), Gautam Gambhir (C), Manish Pandey, Colin Munro/Shakib Al Hasan, Suryakumar Yadav, Yusuf Pathan, Andre Russell, Piyush Chawla, Sunil Narine, Morne Morkel, Umesh Yadav

StaAttack:

1. Glenn Maxwell’s 32 not out in the previous game against Supergiants marked the first time he been unbeaten in 35 innings for Kings XI.

2. Gautam Gambhir (28) has struck the most IPL fifties, two more than David Warner, Rohit Sharma and Suresh Raina.