IPL 2019: Can the struggling RCB do anything to stop KXIP from winning today?
Kings XI Punjab are probably still reeling from the loss against Mumbai Indians in their last outing. They just needed one thing to go in their favour to win, but Mumbai came out as the winners on the day. Punjab, however, can take a lot of positives from the match.
The Mohali-based franchise played well as a unit with almost everyone contributing during the match. With the exception of David Miller in the batting lineup and Sam Curran amongst the bowlers, the players displayed impressive discipline in their cricket. It just was not enough to get over the line against the inspired stand-in captain, Kieron Pollard.
The team would be looking to boost their confidence after the heartbreaking loss, and a beleaguered Bangalore squad would be the perfect prey. The Punjab batsmen have played themselves into fine form and KL Rahul, Chris Gayle and Mayank Agarwal would be looking to add to the runs for the team. Miller needs to start firing for Punjab too, and RCB's bowling could well help him get back among the runs.
Their bowling unit has been more inconsistent. Mohammed Shami has been the standout and would be key here as well. But with Bangalore struggling against spin, one can expect a spot or two for Mujeeb and / or Murugan Ashwin in the team.
Bangalore have had a five-day break, and the think tank must have come up with a few things that need to be changed in the team. That said, it looks like Bangalore is in need of much more than tactical changes.
Their bowling figures have been dismal and the batting has not brought much cheer either, as they languish at the bottom of the points table. All the players from the squad need to work themselves into individual form before they can even think about clicking as a team.
Unless that happens tonight, expect smooth sailing for the men in red. For all you know, Punjab might even storm home with a display of absolute dominance in this one.
Moreover, Mohali has become quite the fortress for Kings XI Punjab in IPL 2019; they have won an impressive seven matches in a row here. That is especially interesting because Punjab have never really been dominant at home in the past seasons.