With Chris Gayle all set to be a part of the Kings XI Punjab’s playing XI for the first time this season, KL Rahul and his men would only hope Royal Challengers Bangalore feel the effect of the “Universe Boss” at the Sharjah Stadium on Thursday.
Being at the receiving end in six of their seven matches so far, Kings XI are badly in need of a win as another defeat would mean they are virtually out of the reckoning for a play-offs berth.
One sees some similarity in the situation Kings XI find themselves in now with what RCB faced back in 2011. Gayle, interestingly, was in the thick of things nine years ago as well.
Back then, RCB too were going through a difficult phase with their campaign in danger of being over well before the play-off stage. Gayle, who wasn’t part of any of the squads, joined RCB midway during the tournament in place of Dirk Nannes and announced his arrival with a terrific 102 not out versus Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens.
Thanks to Gayle, who turned out to be the highest run-getter, RCB finished runners-up in the 2011 edition.
Kings XI would certainly be more than delighted if the Jamaican has a similar impact this time around too. Though the Sharjah wicket has been slowing gradually, the smaller ground dimensions are ideal for Gayle to go on a six-hitting spree.
Having said that, Gayle isn’t getting any younger and was seen to be struggling with his reflexes, especially against potent bowling attacks during the World Cup in the UK last year.
Besides, Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers and the rest of the RCB management are well aware of the 41-year-old’s strengths and weaknesses as he has been their teammate till IPL 2017. At the same time, youngsters Navdeep Saini and Washington Sundar, along with their premier spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, have been spot-on with their line and length. Chris Morris too has done a pretty decent job with the ball.
So, the task won’t be easy for Gayle, who last played competitive cricket back in January.
Benching a yet-to-fire Glenn Maxwell is one option for the Kings XI in order to include Gayle. They can also bring him in at the expense of an overseas bowler.
The Kings XI, however, can take confidence from the fact their only win so far in the tournament has come against RCB, though Kohli’s team look a much more potent squad since their last meeting on September 24.
Moreover, their skipper has regained form and considering how De Villiers has been batting lately, RCB have every reason to be upbeat against their struggling opposition.
Today’s Match
- Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kings XI Punjab, Sharjah (7.30pm IST)
