Big names can win big games for Kings XI Punjab in IPL 7

David Miller, retained by Kings XI Punjab, has built his reputation as a clean hitter in IPL

Authored by Ajay Suresh for ‘The Wicket Post’

Kings XI Punjab haven’t really done what the title says over the past IPL seasons although they’ve had the big names. They will be looking for a massive turnaround this tournament as they progress towards their first match against the Chennai Super Kings against whom, the Kings XI would want a strong start.

The previous years have been unlucky for Kings XI as they weren’t able to make the semis often even though they performed brilliantly especially during IPL 6 where they stormed past situations where they were almost about to lose. They also clearly swept past teams like RCB who had a stronger say in the tournament. But somehow, they lost their momentum during the crunch games and hence lost hold of their position at the points table.

This year though, things are expected to be different. Kings XI look like one of the strongest teams on paper as they march into the tournament with their newly acquired squad. Players like Glenn Maxwell and Mitchell Johnson are proven match-winners, and they will be key during the crunch games where the Kings XI have usually failed.

Another couple of key players for the Kings XI will be David Miller and George Bailey around whom the batting revolves. Miller who acquired his title of ‘Miller the Killer’ in the previous IPL season has won games almost single-handedly against the oppositions. His ability to contain himself when the ball is seaming around or when the team’s under pressure is a key element the Kings XI will look to. His ability to go berserk as all IPL fans know, is threatening to any team.

On the other hand, George Bailey hasn’t really had much of an IPL experience. He has spent most of his time on the bench for CSK. Since Adam Gilchrist has retired and left a large hole in the KXIP side, all the pressure will be on George Bailey to fit in his shoes! Although he’s a match-winner and a strong captain, he’s looked in no comfort during the T20 World Cup where his country was knocked out early. But as he said in one of his interviews, T20 isn’t the format where players are “in” or “out” of form. All it takes is a couple of good hits to get going. With all said and done, will Bailey be able to show the big match temperament and win games for his side? We’ll have to wait and watch.

Virender Sehwag can be a game-changer on his day

Virender Sehwag. Two words which can make bowlers run off the field. When it’s Sehwag’s day, he can tear an opposition apart with well-timed and powerful shots. He can demolish and demoralize absolutely any attack. Currently, he’s been in a lean patch, but he will be looking to make a big comeback not only for KXIP, but also for a place in the Indian side. His temperament and persistence will be important as he will look to score a boundary off every ball he faces. The mere presence of a Sehwag can demoralize oppositions as we’ve witnessed in the past. Having a huge reputation of making big scores, Sehwag is an element which puts KXIP as one of the favourites to win this IPL.

You can’t talk about KXIP’s magnificent IPL Auctions without talking about their big buy, Mitchell Johnson. Johnson has been at the top of his game in the past few months and was one of the key player any team would have wanted during the auctions. But KXIP snatched Johnson from the hands of Mumbai to make their side as strong as ever. Johnson’s buy will not only add to the team’s assets, but will also be a boost of morale in the team as they’ll feel safe in the hands of a game changing bowler. Although the UAE pitches aren’t really fast bowler friendly, Mitch is expected to rip the surface with his heavy bouncers which will give batsmen nightmares.

THE GREAT WEAKNESS

One of the concerns for KXIP this time around though, will be their lack of spinners. On spinner friendly pitches in the UAE, spinners can be a real asset to any team. But KXIP doesn’t seem to have any spinner to rely on except Murali Kartik. Although Murali can contribute in his own capacity, once he has a bad day, KXIP will have no spinners to look to. This is a major concern which has to be addressed by the team management as they’ll look to balance their side.

Summing it up, KXIP has one of the best squads in IPL 2014 and will be looking to seal the proceedings on April 18th against CSK. They look strong as a unit and will look forward to race for the cup! It will be a competitive IPL this year as all the teams are well balanced. But KXIP can never be kept out of the race as they will be fancying their chances with the backing of their explosive batting and threatening bowling attack.