Kings XI Punjab skipper Ravichandran Ashwin has stated that they will back their strengths in the fourth match of the season against Rajasthan Royals. This would be the first match for both franchises and both of them will be looking forward to making a good start in the 12th edition of the Indian Premier League.
Meanwhile, Ravichandran Ashwin believes it is more crucial to focus on their own strengths rather than the weaknesses of the opposition. In fact, Ashwin feels there is not a lot of weaknesses in the Rajasthan Royals camp.
Both teams will look to get off to a good start.
Ravichandran Ashwin had led with aplomb in the previous season of the league. The Punjab franchise had won five matches out of the first seven matches. However, they had veered off the track in the last seven matches of the season. Consequently, the Punjab franchise will like to pull up their socks in the coming season.
Asked if Royals have any weakness, the Punjab skipper said, “It is all about how we can perform on that particular day and find the other team short. We will try to attack their best. Can’t say that they don’t play spin well or fast-bowling well. They don’t have any particular area of weakness, but we will back our strengths.”
On the other hand, Ravichandran Ashwin believes his record in the T20I version of the game is not that bad. However, it is up to the selectors and team management to play a finger spinner or wrist spinner. Thus, Ashwin was unfortunate to miss out on his chance.
“In T20 format, my economy is 6.97 and I have played a good number of games in the IPL and the last T20 World Cup I played in was an extraordinary performance from my side,” he said in an assertive tone. “So, that is where I would like to rest my case. As far as playing the finger or wrist spinner is concerned, it’s totally a call of the selectors and the management,” he added.
Meanwhile, Ravichandran Ashwin believes Rajasthan Royals have a balanced side as they have quality all-rounders in their team. Royals have the likes of Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer, Krishnappa Gowtham in their team.
“Over the years IPL franchises have looked to have most of the bases covered. Most teams have a good top-order and somebody who is a red hot form. Rajasthan is a well-rounded side and they have got enough all-rounders,” Ravichandran Ashwin said.
Meanwhile, it would be interesting to note who will draw first blood in the contest between Kings XI Punjab and Rajasthan Royals. The fourth match of the season will take place at Sawai Man Singh Stadium in Jaipur.