File photo: Kings XI Punjab finished runners-up in IPL 2014.
© BCCI
Kings XI Punjab would look to adapt quickly to their new 'home ground' when they lock horns with former champions Rajasthan Royals in their campaign opener in the Indian Premier League (IPL) at Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium on Friday. Catch all the live cricket score and live updates of the match here: (LIVE SCORECARD | SCHEDULE | POINTS TABLE)
The Royals, who have three 2015 World Cup winners in Shane Watson, Steven Smith and James Faulkner, would look to Chris Morris, their costliest buy at Rs 1.4 crore, for a positive start. Morris was bought for his all-round skills and will be expected to partner Faulkner in that department.
With the ball, Morris produced a record performance for Lions in the Ram Slam T20 last year. But a big challenge for Royals would be adapting to a new home after their actual home ground of Jaipur was taken off the roster owing to the dispute in the Rajasthan Cricket Association.
With captain Watson and Stuart Binny playing all-round roles as well, chief coach Paddy Upton feels Morris' inclusion gives Royals a lot of options.
They have also brought in two leg-spinners in Dinesh Salunkhe and Pardeep Sahu, and could play decisive roles for the team in this format.
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