IPL 2019: Kings XI Punjab's star aim to break title drought

A camaraderie of eleven Kings is ought to do well in any circumstances, at least that's what we expect out of them. But wait, is that the case with our very own Kings XI Punjab? Well, unfortunately, no. The team, which was built around a lot of big names have twice been close to getting their hands on the coveted trophy in eleven years, but haven't managed to do it. It wouldn't be wrong to say that they haven't done justice with their strength on paper, to be blatantly honest. 

If we rewind the clock to the eleven IPL editions so far they finished in the top four only twice, finishing as runner-up once in 2014. They never quite had a fairytale run, and when they did the fairytale ending eluded them. But at the end of it, there have been many sparkling performances for the Kings to wear in their crown, although made of gold and not a diamond. 

The likes of Paul Valthaty, Adam Gilchrist, Virender Sehwag, Sandeep Sharma, and Shaun Marsh may have helped the side to turn agony turn into ecstasy in past, but going forward the requirement would a little more if the team wants trophy cabinet to have its first IPL trophy. The twelfth edition of the premier franchise-based T20 league will bring new hopes under the same leader, however, will the result be different? - We will find out in less than two months time. 

Kings XI Punjab complete squad: 

Ravichandran Ashwin(c), Lokesh Rahul, Chris Gayle, Mayank Agarwal, Karun Nair, David Miller, Mandeep Singh, Simran Singh, Nicholas Pooran, Sarfaraz Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Murugan Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Andrew Tye, Ankit Rajpoot, Hardus Viljoen, Arshdeep Singh, Moises Henriques, Varun Chakravarthy, Sam Curran, Darshan Nalkande, Agnivesh Ayachi, Harpreet Brar

Support Staff:

Coach: Mike Hesson

Batting coach: Sridharan Sriram

Bowling coach: Ryan Harris

Fielding coach: Craig McMillan

Physiotherapist: Brett Harrop

RELATED

Two Indian Players to watch out for: 

Mayank Agarwal: 

Mayank, who start in the line up as the third opener but seeing his form over the last couple of years now, the franchise wouldn't want to keep this talent on the bench. With this, all eyes will be on Agwarwal whether is able to capitalize on this opportunity. 

Varun Chakravarthy: 

Varun, who wasn't a known in the cricket fraternity before the last Tamil Nadu Premier League season has gone leaps and bounds due to his pure wrist spinning abilities. The upcoming IPL season will help him to get renowned at the world stage. However, it is likely that he will start on the bench at the start of the season if the franchise decides to utilise Mujeeb's experience. 

Two Foreign Players to watch out for:

Sam Curran: 

Curran was exceedingly successful against India in June last year. However, whether he will be as effective as he was in the English conditions - this remains to be seen. 

Chris Gayle:

Gayle made an interesting statement before starting 2018 IPL edition. He said that IPL cannot happen without the involvement of Chris Gayle aka Universe Boss. On some grounds, it remains true eyeing what he brings to the table. Seeing his form against England, he can be deadly dangerous for the opposition. 

Past Record:

2008: 3rd

2009: 5th

2010: 8th

2011: 5th

2012: 6th

2013: 6th

2014: 2nd

2015: 8th

2016: 8th

2017: 5th

2018: 7th

HIGHLIGHTS

• Kings XI Punjab will begin their season against Rajasthan Royals on March 25.
• The team will start the season under a new coach Mike Hesson.
• Kings XI has never won IPL title in the 11 seasons so far.