After suffering a 69-run thrashing at the hands of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) skipper KL Rahul rued opening batsman Mayank Agarwal’s run-out in the second over for just 9 runs.
Chasing 202 to win, KXIP got bowled out for 132 in 16.5 overs. It was a listless batting performance from Punjab as none of the batsmen except for Nicholas Pooran (77 off 37 balls) managed to cross the 15-run mark.
"When we lose wickets in the powerplay, it's gonna be tough, especially when we're playing only six batters. Getting Mayank run-out wasn't the ideal start, it was a disaster," said Rahul during the post-match presentation ceremony.
Opting to bat first, SRH openers Jonny Bairstow and David Warner wreaked havoc on KXIP bowlers, sharing a 160-run stand in 15 overs.
In particular, Bairstow was severe on the Kings XI bowlers, smashing 97 off just 55 balls. His knock was laced with 7 fours and 6 sixes. Skipper Warner also played the role of a second fiddle perfectly, scoring 52 from 40 deliveries, including 5 fours and a six.
In the last 5 overs, KXIP bowlers managed to pull things back as they conceded 41 runs and claimed 6 wickets but SRH still managed to pile up a massive 201/6 on the board.
Leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi was the stand-out bowler for Punjab, claiming 3 wickets by conceding 29 runs in his three overs.
"It was also one of those days when everything we hit in the air went to the fielders. For the last five games, we struggled with our death bowling, but that was a positive today. The boys showed courage and pulled things bat, you expect them to score 230-plus after that start," Rahul remarked.
"Bishnoi's shown a lot of heart, he's not been afraid whether it's the powerplay or at the back end. He's enjoyed that occasion," he added.
KL Rahul also showered rich praise on Pooran for his valiant effort with the willow.
"Pooran is just so good to watch and he's batting really well. Did the same thing every time he got a chance last year as well. One more thing for us to stay positive about, we know that Nicky will come good," he said.
Kings XI Punjab will take on Rajasthan Royals in their next match on Sunday (October 11).
