IPL 9, Match 10: KXIP v RPSG - 5 Talking Points

Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) have finally got off the mark in the points table after an efficient victory over the Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS) by six wickets at the IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali. Electing to bat first, RPS managed to score an under par 152 on the board, majorly thanks to 67 from Faf du Plessis. However, an excellent opening partnership of 97 between Manan Vohra and Murali Vijay gave KXIP a perfect start. Eventually, Glenn Maxwell finished off the match quickly to help Punjab open its account.

1. Shaky start for RPS:

Opting to bat first, Pune Supergiants got off to a modest start, losing the early wicket of Rahane in the 3rd over. Kevin Pietersen’s arrival at the crease gave the required boost to Faf du Plessis, who started playing his shots with freedom. Scoring at nearly 8 rpo, RPS were all set for a big total. However, Kyle Abbott and Sandeep Sharma struck again in quick succession, to pull things back in control. The run rate was successfully curbed, and Pune had already lost 3 important wickets halfway through the innings.

2. Du Plessis-Smith keep the scoreline ticking:

However, the arrival of an experienced Steve Smith gave RPS a glimmer of hope to put on a big target. And the Australian captain did not disappoint. Sticking to his forte- orthodox shorts, Smith played the perfect foil to du Plessis, and the duo kept the scorecard ticking at a good pace. Eventually, when Smith was dismissed post a partnership of 64, RPS looked well poised to score more than 160.

3. The final over collapse:

With 149 on the board and an over to go, RPS would have definitely fancied 165+. However, Mohit Sharma, with his exceptional use of slower balls, manage to choke the RPSG batsmen for room and pace, and eventually lost 3 wickets in the over. The visitors managed to score just 3 off the last over, and the home team saved nearly 10 runs in the final over thanks to Mohit Sharma’s efforts.

4. Vijay, Vohra milk RPS:

A good start was required for the KXIP to set up for the chase, and that’s exactly what Vijay-Vohra did. The duo played shots all around the park to make a mockery out of the RPS’ pace attack. Even Dhoni’s go-to man, R Ashwin, was deftly negotiated by the class of M Vijay and bashfulness of Vohra. Eventually, the other Ashwin got Vohra’s number, but not before putting KXIP right in front of victory’s doorstep.

5. M Ashwin shines, Maxwell hits the knockout punch:

Murugan Ashwin once again showed his calibre by picking 3 quick wickets to leave KXIP at a precautious stage. However, Glenn Maxwell chose the right moment to hit form; scoring a quick 14-ball 32 to drive KXIP to a well-earned victory. While KXIP have finally got off the mark, RPS, despite looking exceptionally strong on paper, need to sort out their issues.

How did Twitter react to the game? – Twitter Reactions: Kings XI Punjab stun RPS to win their game in the season