Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) seem to be in the form of their life, as they have won four games in a row. It was on Saturday night when they won their fifth game of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, as they beat former champions Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Meanwhile, legendary Indian Master Blaster, Sachin Tendulkar, has revealed the possible reason behind KXIP's turn in fortunes.
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Tendulkar feels that KXIP's resurgence in their form could be due to one man, and that is none other than 'Universe Boss' Chris Gayle, who has inflicted tremendous confidence in the side. Tendulkar feels that Gayle's flawless batting ability has allowed the other batsmen in the side to play in a charming manner.
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“Well, he (Chris Gayle) has brought a lot of energy in the team and there are certain players with the way they play, their style, the statement they make with the hard-hitting shots. It has a positive impact on the team and that is exactly what has happened. Although, I know KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal have been batting well. Nicholas Pooran is another dangerous guy and the addition of Chris Gayle makes a dangerous batting line-up,” Tendulkar was quoted as saying to India Today.
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“So, it’s not over yet. You never know, in this format, you only need the momentum to take you forward and Gayle has managed to do that for the team, and with the other guys in the team, it’s not over yet for Kings XI Punjab. The energy that the dressing room brings after the victories, three back-to-back victories is infectious," he added.
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However, Tendulkar also feels that besides being a great batsman, Gayle also possesses a good analytical brain. He also called Gayle one of the smartest cricketers in the world.
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“When it comes to Gayle, people only talk about his big-hitting that everyone knows. Many guys don’t know one thing that Gayle is a very very smart player. He is a big-hitter no doubt, but he is a smart player and a clever guy," Tendulkar concluded.
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KXIP have suffered six losses in 11 matches so far, as they would aim at continuing their winning run to stay in contention for the playoffs. Meanwhile, KXIP take on former champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) next, in Sharjah, on Monday.
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