IPL 2017, KXIP vs GL: 5 things that went wrong for Kings XI Punjab

#3 Lack of specialist second spinner

Axar Patel could have fared better with specialist spin support at the other end

When T20s came into the picture, there was trepidation regarding the future of spinners amidst big bats and shortening boundaries. However, as the format took shape, it became apparent that taking pace off the ball would hold a significant leverage over well-set batsmen.

In this regard, Kings XI could have selected a specialist second spinner to partner the usually reliable Axar Patel. Instead of picking an array of seamers and having to make do with Glenn Maxwell’s part-time off-spin, the think tank had the option of using a wrist-spinner like KC Cariappa.

Even though their stocks do not sound promising, giving consistent opportunities to the slow bowlers is the only way to instil confidence and derive game-changing spells.