Rajasthan Royals feel the pressure

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Kings XI Punjab and Rajasthan Royals have had very contrasting runs in IPL-5 so far.

A team who rely on their young, local players, Rajasthan made all the right noises at the start of the tournament — and even looked a repeat of the inaugural year when they won the title — before slowly losing their way.

Surprisingly, they have done most things right. Rajasthan have garnered solid partnerships at the top, are led ably by the calm and calculated Rahul Dravid, and have been well served by overseas players Aussie duo of Brad Hodge and Brad Hogg along with the now injured Kevon Cooper.

Their inability to last the distance in pressure matches though has pegged them back on more occasions than one.

On Saturday, when they face Kings XI Punjab at the PCA here, the Royals know they will have to get their act together soon and make optimum use of their ability and resources to revive their campaign.
For their part, Kings XI found renewed impetus with the arrival of former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood.

The 37-year old’s displays have added a spark to their line-up, giving the Kings a complete look. Injuries are always an unwanted part in sport, but a hamstring tear to skipper Adam Gilchrist has perhaps been a blessing in disguise for Preity Zinta’s team.

All-rounder David Hussey has led the team admirably — also chipping in with runs — and the Kings will look to build on from this stage.

Shaun Marsh of Australia and local talents Mandeep Singh and Nitin Saini — drafted in after Gilchrist’s injury — have batted assuredly, while pacer Praveen Kumar (4-0-8-0) showed what he can do when in his elements against RCB. The inclusion of Australia pacer Ryan Harris further boosts their chances.

The think-tank though would be wary of how they allowed RCB to almost claw their way back into the match in Bengaluru, and that could be a cause of concern.

For Rajasthan, Cooper’s unavailability for the rest of the tournament will be a huge blow.