KXIP v RPS a mini final, will keep it simple
Kings XI Punjab have been living on the edge, virtually out of the playoff race, but two narrow wins have put them one win from a top-four finish. KXIP face Rising Pune Supergiant away on Sunday and victory will ensure their progress.
Aussie batsman Shaun Marsh initially struggled for a spot in the playing XI but has struck form late in the tournament with two half-centuries. He talks to HT about his team’s hopes.
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KXIP versus RPS will decide the playoff lineup...
We are really excited about tomorrow’s game. With Pune losing against Delhi, it’s like a mini-final for both teams. And that’s good motivation for us as a playing group. If we win, we have a chance to get an opportunity to play in the final. We have played good cricket in four to five games and hope to carry it forward.
Does the knockout scenario add to the pressure?
We are trying to keep it as simple as possible and keep playing the way we are playing as a team and also individually. All the players know their role.
You didn’t get to play early in the tournament. Did it affect you?
It’s always good to get a game after I missed the first five matches. I am looking forward to tomorrow’s game.
Wriddhiman Saha was promoted to open in the last match. Can we expect more such changes?
As a team, it’s always good to be flexible. Saha got a chance at the top of the order the other night and made it count. It’s good for the team that players are utilising the chance they are getting.
Is KXIP missing Hashim Amla and David Miller, both of whom have left for Champions Trophy, at this crucial juncture?
Both were very important players to the team but they have left. Hash had a wonderful tournament. It gives the others a chance.
Among the young Indian talent in IPL, whose game has caught your eye the most?
There are a lot of good Indian players and if I have to pick one, it would be Manan Vohra. We saw the damage he did against Sunrisers (Manan Vohra scored a 50-ball 95). He has a bright future.