Kings XI Punjab aim to finish at top: Bowling coach Joe Dawes

Joe Dawes

As the Indian Premier League 2014 is nearing the play-offs stage, the teams are fighting amongst each other to make it to the top four. However, Kings XI Punjab’s bowling coach Joe Dawes appears to be relaxed, courtesy the team’s exceptional performance throughout the tournament. Punjab are currently at the first spot. Dawes stated that his team is aiming to finish on top of the points table to give themselves a second chance at making the finals in case they lose the first qualifier.

“Yah, we are thinking of one more (win) that will get us into the playoffs. We want to finish first to give ourselves two cracks before the finals. We have been winning and we want to continue that,” he said.

The 43-year-old also praised Glenn Maxwell, Virender Sehwag and David Miller for being the cornerstones of team’s success. “When guys like Maxi, David Miller and Virender Sehwag, are hitting around the total is coming. We have got three-four blokes who are absolutely belting at the moment and we are cashing on them what we can,” he said.

The 21-year-old swing bowler Sandeep Sharma has been a revelation, getting the wickets of opposition’s leading batsmen with ease on a consistent basis. When asked about him, Dawes said: “He is swinging it. The kid has done really well. He is 20 years of age and is amazing how he thinks about the game. His preparation is professional and is pleasure to work with him.”

When asked if Shaun Marsh would get an opportunity to play for the team in the next few matches, Dawes said: “Why do you think we should give him a game? Who should be dropped?”

“Shaun has taken it really well. That is the good thing about this unit. They are not worried about who is playing or who is going in front of him. The group looks to be really enjoying themselves and enjoying each others company,” he concluded.