Kings XI Skipper Finds Form
The helmsman of the Kings XI Punjab side probably sent a clear message to all – how he will handle the big stage. In the limited-overs provincial final for Kandurata in his native Sri Lanka, Kumara Sangakarra played a well-paced innings or 76 at just over a run-a-ball to anchor his side to victory over Rahuna at Moratuwa on 21st February to clinch the title.
Yuvraj’s Captain-Elect
Sangakarra will lead the high-profile Mohali-based franchise in the third edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) starting on 12th March, a role he is looking forward to. He takes over from dashing India southpaw Yuvraj Singh whose captaincy during the first two editions he emphasises gave the ‘Lions’ from Kings XI a platform that he can build upon.
Thrilling Cricket
For cricket lovers, it’s been an eye fest recently, with Tendulkar’s world record breaking 200 against South Africa and the thrilling Indian domestic championships’ finals for the Ranji and Duleep trophies. The excitement of Kandurata’s final victory by five balls and three wickets was similar to Mumbai’s six-run Ranji Trophy win over Karnataka in January.
Aggressive
Sangakkara keeps wickets in limited-over formats, including the IPL, and has shown a devastating ability to clear the infield and the ropes. He can aptly be christened the Matale Marauder, from the place of his birth, just like his illustrious Sri Lankan compatriot Sanath Jayasuriya, the Matara Marauder. The Mohali-Chandigarh franchisee would be only too happy if he fulfilled that role alongside the captain’s.
And They Keep Coming…
The Punjab Kings XI side showcased three batsmen with the same style of batting, all three lefthanders in the second edition – Yuvraj Singh, Shaun Marsh and Sangakarra, possibly evoking comparisons to a sort of team revolving door, where if one is dismissed, a clone steps in. The first instance of the revolving-door phrase was the English media’s reference to Mohammed Azharuddin’s batting style, where the ball seemed to be hit by a revolving door.
Natural Progression
Sangakkara’s appointment as Kings XI captain follows a natural pattern of his being made captain of his national side a year ago. He has led the Sri Lanka team admirably and shows every sign of repeating the performance with the Lions from Punjab.
Going for Glory
The Lions will be licking their wounds after the Punjab team were knocked out of the one-day championship in a close game against Mumbai in the Vijay Hazare trophy. Punjab cricket will seek redemption from Sanga’s captaincy in the IPL and of course the title which has eluded them.
