Published: Apr 17, 2016, 10:30 AM (IST)
Edited: Apr 17, 2016, 12:19 PM (IST)
Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) and Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS) to play their third match of IPL 2016 at Mohali. KXIP are yet to register a win in this edition whereas RPS will look to stay in the top four and achieve their second win. Punjab are currently at the bottom of the table failing to impress or give a fight to the opponent losing their match to Gujarat Lions and Delhi Daredevils. Pune started their campaign with a bang, romping over defending champions Mumbai Indians in the inaugural match and facing defeat in the second match to Gujarat Lions. Punjab will have the advantage of playing in home conditions and should look to make the most of it. A lot depends on how their star players can turn the tale in this year’s IPL: FULL CRICKET SCORECARD: Kings XI Punjab vs Rising Pune Supergiants, IPL 2016, Match 10 at Mohali.
Glenn Maxwell vs Ravichandran Ashwin: This rivalry dates back to 2014 IPL where Kings XI Punjab reached the finals of the IPL-7. Glenn Maxwell is struggling with his form, lacking patience and getting out in the process looking to break free early on. Ravichandran Ashwin is having a mixed bag of IPL this season. Maxwell’s spot is in danger if he fails to perform in this match. Ashwin too is having a hard time and will be looking for a turnaround in this match.
Faf Du Plessis vs Kyle Abbott: South African skipper is in great form scoring a half century in the last match. He also performed well in T20 World Cup. Same is the case with Kyle Abbott, he bowled well in T20 World Cup and also deserves a chance in lieu of out of form Mitchell Johnson who seems to have lost his command over game. This mini battle between two teammates will be exciting to watch.
David Miller vs Ishant Sharma: Kings XI Punjab depends too much on their skipper David Miller. It’s important that “Killer Miller” finds his form in the IPL to give Punjab a fighting chance. Ishant Sharma bowled with decent pace and good line and length in the first match. He needs to do the same, especially in the death over where match’s course is decided.
MS Dhoni vs Axar Patel: Although comparing MS Dhoni with Axar Patel isn’t fair but the left armer might pose some problems for the skipper. Axar Patel has a knack of picking up wickets but also turns out to be expensive. MS Dhoni’s wicket will be crucial for Punjab seeing his recent form and his ability to take the game away from the opposition in the end.
Ajinkya Rahane vs Mohit Sharma: Ajinkya Rahane has been in good form recently, he blasted a half century in the opening match against Mumbai Indians anchoring the innings. He fell victim to Pravin Tambe’s wrong one in the next match. Whereas Mohit Sharma will be experimenting with his slower ball against Rahane early on that might catch him off-guard. His off cutters have always posed problems for batsmen failing to time the ball with precision.
(Arun Rawal, a reporter with CricketCountry, is a daydreamer, movie buff, and cricket fanatic. He could not play cricket, so did the next best thing, writing for it. He loves to play the flick shot over square leg, and believes Sachin Tendulkar is God. His twitter handle is @ArunRawal93)
