Chandigarh, March 24: With fast bowler Brett Lee and batsman Shaun Marsh, both from Australia, reinforcing the team, hosts Kings XI Punjab are confident of giving improved performance in their remaining matches in the third edition of the Indian Premier League.
Having tasted their first win after defeating Chennai Super Kings on Sunday in four matches they have played so far, Kings XI Punjab, captained by Sri Lankan Kumar Singakkara will face Rajasthan Royals tomorrow at the Punjab Cricket Association Stadium in Mohali.
Talking to media Kings XI Punjab batsman from England Ravi Bopara said ‘our players are more reassured and confident after Mondays triumph and will carry the momentum into our encounter against Rajasthan Royals.’ Brett Lee and Shaun Marsh reached Chandigarh yesterday to bolster the Kings XI Punjab. The hosts team had a net practise at the Sector 16 Cricket Stadium here while Rajasthan Royals were at nets at the PCA Stadium in the evening.
Ravi Bopara, whose parents belong to Punjab, said ”with Bret Lee and Shaun Marsh joinng the team, the Kings XI Punjab players have become more confident to give improved performance to improve their position in the points table.” Yuvraj Singh and Irfan Pathan have regained their form which is good sign for Kings XI Punjab.
At present Kings XI Punjab and Rajasthan Royals are at the bottom with -0.27 and -0.95 nett run rate, repectively. ”It was due to disciplined bowling, we defended a low total against Chennia Super Kings. The bowlers are bowling well,” said Ravi Bopara.
Admitting that the batsmen have so far not delivered the goods, Ravi Bopara said ‘captain Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene are due for a big score. We expect that the Sri Lankans can do justice to the talent they have.’ Coach Tom Moody is joining the team which will be a big morale-boaster for Kings XI Punjab. The coach is thorough professional and gets the best out of a player.
Jeremy Snape, Rajasthan Royals coach Jermy Snape said our team displayed their strength in their triumph against Kokata Knight Riders. Our players are spirited.
Rajasthan Royals suffered big jolts when Graeme Smith and all-rounder Dimitri Mascarenhas were injured and could not play after the opening match against Delhi Daredevils. Rajasthan Royals are also missing the service of batsman Ravinder Jadeja who is facing ban.
———Agencies