Adam Gilchrist

Adam Gilchrist – the man who changed the definition of a wicket – keeper to an all – rounder – was in awesome form to end the 7 match winning streak of the Bangalore Challengers. It was easily a “Kings Display” as the Royals went down in heap without a “Challenge”. Gilly along with Marsh – the cleanest and prettiest striker of the ball – enlightened the spectators with “pleasant power” hitting on their way to record breaking double century partnership in the history of T20 cricket.

RCB – the team which has profited from the entry of Gayle – was incompetent and were clearly flabbergasted by the mighty onslaught of the two Aussie left handers. Virat Kohli absolutely ran out of his ideas and was not in a position to give a piece of advice to senior pros like Langeveldt and Van der Wath as they were taken for plenty! Gilly’s aggression was evident from the hat trick sixes that he blasted of Langeveldt and Marsh was in awesome mood to loot 30 runs of a single over from Van der Wath. Kings XI though started like a goods train geared into top speed and ended the innings at the rate of knots to post a challengeable and unachievable total.

Praveen Kumar (PK) who once was called the “Sultan of swing” of the Indian team started the bowling with imperious bowling that saw Gayle shoulder arms for 2 balls and play and miss the other 4. The first ball which he hit was an edge that was grasped by Gilly. The start given by PK was reminiscent of the things that were to pan out and Piyush Chawla struck a purple patch in the next few overs to pick 4 for 15 (the best figures by a Kings XI bowler in the history of IPL) to end the RCB marathon run.

Kings XI not only ended the streak of wins, but also gave themselves more than a chance to reach the play offs as they have increased the net run rate within the range of the KKR. The pressure now is on the Gambhir’s team to win atleast one if not both to qualify. Kings XI next match up is with the beleaguered Deccan (who will be out without the services of Sanga) will feel they have done enough to make the top 4. Chennai or Bangalore have the chance to end up in the top 2 positions.

IPL 2011 is getting to end but not without the much needed twist in the tale!

Tags: Adam Gilchrist, Chris Gayle, Gilly, IPL 2011, Kings Display, Kings XI Punjab, KXIP, Preity Zinta, RCB, Royal Challengers Bangalore