Published: May 06, 2017, 08:56 AM (IST)
Edited: May 06, 2017, 08:56 AM (IST)
Glenn Maxwell-led Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) thrashed Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in a low-scoring thriller. This was their 5th win in the tournament and skipper Maxwell wants his side to continue performing the same way and keep winning. Batting first, KXIP posted only 138, which RCB failed to chase and were bowled out for a mere 119. The foundation was laid by Akshar Patel and Sandeep Sharma. Akshar first impressed with bat by playing a crucial cameo of 38 not out off 17 balls and then picked up three wickets as well, while Sandeep bowled excellently and picked three big wickets of Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers. Full Cricket Scorecard, Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kings XI Punjab, IPL 2017, Match 43
After claiming victory, Maxwell seemed happy in the post-match presentation ceremony and credited Akshar’s cameo for the win. “We did really well. I think as far as history is concerned, I thought we did well. Akshar’s innings got us to the score which we thought we can defend. We bowled some loose balls, but still to defend that score against the quality of batting RCB have is just superb,” said Maxwell.
Maxwell then applauded Sandeep’s impressive bowling and said, “Sandeep Sharma has been amazing in the last 2 games. To get those three out in the tournament is a big thing, having all of them in one innings is just brilliant.”
However Maxwell accepted KXIP’s worry over their batting and expressed, “We probably were a little bit patchy with the bat. We got to play well in the remaining games especially we are going to play some quality sides. The highest score batting first here is 161, we thought of putting up 180 on the board. Akshar Patel’s little cameo helped us post a decent score on the board.”
With KXIP’s next two to be played at Mohali, Maxwell looked excited and mentioned about Akshar’s impressive record at the venue. “Two games in Mohali, that probably suits our bowlers and with big boundaries the spinners will come into play. Akshar has a great record there. As a bowling group, we want to continue doing well,” added Maxwell.
KXIP’s next match is going to be against Gujarat Lions (GL) at Mohali. They are currently at 5th position in the points table with 5 wins and as many defeats from 10 matches.
