IPL 2018: 4 reasons why Kings XI Punjab may clinch their maiden IPL title this time
Kings XI Punjab are one of the three current active teams in IPL to have never laid their hands on an IPL trophy, the other two being Delhi Daredevils and Royal Challengers Bangalore.
Despite having had the luxury of their jersey being donned by stalwarts such as Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene, and Yuvraj Singh, lady luck has never glistened her smile on their fortunes. Their best ever performance was ending up as runners-up in 2014.
However, things are looking upward for the team in the IPL 2018 and this season might reverse their track record as KXIP are on the right path, having made some sensible decisions during auctions. The team has a perfect blend of youth and experience that might just be the medicine that the doctor ordered.
Here are four reasons why 2018 might be the year when KXIP might rewrite history and go on to fill their trophy cabinet this time around.
#1 Heavy top order batting
Top order batting line-up is one of the most vital cogs in any successful T20 team's wheel. KXIP's top order batting has the potential to send the chills down the spine of any bowling attack. With the opening batting attack comprising the names of some of the biggest hitters in the world, KXIP can truly lay claim to being the front-runners this season.
They managed to bag the universal boss Chris Gayle at his base price. Though one might argue that Gayle is not the same threat he used to be, he still has the potential to shred any bowling attack to pieces on his day.
Along with him is Australian dasher Aaron Finch who has the ability to clear the ropes with ease and enjoys playing on Indian soil. There is also KL Rahul in the mix who has a T20I average of 45.45.
If their top order manages to make maximum utilization of the powerplay overs and give them a good headway, KXIP fans might have a lot to rejoice this season.