Kings XI Punjab pulled off a heist against Delhi Capitals on Monday, with a Sam Curran hat-trick helping secure a 14-run win after the visitor had needed just 23 runs off 21 balls with seven wickets in hand.
Kings XI itself suffered a late-innings collapse and was restricted to 166 for nine after being on course for a 180-plus total. David Miller top-scorer for Kings XI with a 30-ball 43 and his dismissal triggered the collapse.
Kumar Sangakkara, a Star Sports Select Dugout expert, analysed Miller's batting and said, "David Miller’s strategy has always been to attack. I don’t think he has a hugely successful defensive game because aggression is the best form of defence for him. He looks to capitalise and pick off the spinners and deposit them into the stands."
Miller hit two sixes in his 43, one an inside-out shot over cover off the bowling of Harshal Patel, and another off leg-break bowler Sandeep Lamichhane, who he hit over long-on with a good extension of his arms and with good timing.
Kings XI went into yesterday's match without its leading run-scorer in the season so far, Chris Gayle, who was out with a niggle.
Sangakkara said Kings XI's team selection, under the circumstances, was a good one.
“Kings XI did the best they could under the circumstances," Sangakkara, who played for the franchise from 2008 to 2010, said.
They understood that a well-balanced bowling attack that can take wickets is essential in IPL and have accordingly kept their bowling intact. I think it’s a very positive move, it might not always work for them, but I like the attitude," he added.
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