IPL 2017: 5 areas Kings XI Punjab should work on to remain in contention for the play-offs

*Punjab cannot afford to lose another game*

#2 Over dependence on Maxwell in the middle overs

Image result for glenn maxwell sportskeeda — *Over-reliance on Maxwell has cost Punjab*

In Marsh and Guptill, Punjab have a formidable top order but their middle order has always looked vulnerable. So far in this year’s IPL, they have relied heavily on Glenn Maxwell in the middle order.

With David Miller and Marcus Stoinis ruled out of this IPL and the non-availability of an experienced Indian middle order batsman, Punjab are struggling for options.

Against RCB, Kings XI tried to slot Vohra in the middle order but it didn’t yield any good results. In their last match, they brought in Gurkeerat Singh to strengthen the middle order. But given Gurkeerat’s lack of experience, he too is a gamble.

The trouble for Punjab is the fact that all four of their overseas players bat in the top four. The team management has to either make one of these four batsmen bat lower down the order or rely on an Indian batsman to get the job done.

Axar Patel has emerged as a reliable option and given his ability to hit big shots, he can be promoted up in the batting order.

But one thing is for certain, Punjab cannot rely only on Maxwell to deliver in every match. Someone has to step up and shoulder that responsibility.