IPL 2018: Kings XI Punjab Cannot Be Overdependent on Their Openers - Kris Srikkanth

Former India cricketer, Kris Srikkanth feels Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) cannot rely on Chris Gayle and KL Rahul, who have done remarkably well so far in this tournament.

Meanwhile, Punjab slipped from third to the fourth spot on the points table. Srikkanth believes they need to look beyond their opener, as they chase a playoff spot.

The Kings XI takes on the bottom-placed Rajasthan Royals on May 6 at the Holkar Stadium, Indore. They will be keen to shift the gear and come back to winning ways.

Srikkanth, while writing his column in TOI observed KXIP slipping down the table left them in a tight spot.

“For a team that started with all guns blazing with five wins in the first six games, things look a little different now. The ill-planned chase against Hyderabad could hurt them badly in the final analysis,” wrote Srikkanth

Punjab lost two matches against Sunrisers Hyderabad and Mumbai Indians and now finds themselves in a spot of bother. However, they will have too come good as a team and change the track.

Overdependency on openers

Srikkanth noted that Punjab middle-order looked vulnerable and exposed if Rahul and Gayle fails to fire. He also added the upcoming game against Rajasthan is ideal for reshaping things.

“The over-dependence on their openers: Chris Gayle and KL Rahul have now become obvious. They need their other batsmen to fire and make it count. They do look a different side if there is a solid opening start; else they look completely vulnerable and exposed. The game against Rajasthan will present Kings XI with another opportunity to slowly put things back on track,” he added.

Moreover, Punjab needs to brush their fielding which had looked a bit sloppy at times. Srikkant believes poor fielding has hurt Punjab’s chances and they need to rectify their mistakes.

“Another area where they need to shore up is their fielding, too many easy runs given away in the field and catches going down has also upset their chances,” Srikkanth concluded.

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