Bowling in death overs a concern: Axar

Tribune News Service

Mohali, April 18

With Ravichandran Ashwin-led Kings XI Punjab looking to end the Sunrisers Hyderabad’s winning streak at IS Bindra PCA Stadium here on Thursday, left-arm spinner Axar Patel said the bowling at death remained a cause of “concern” for the hosts.

“Bowling in death overs is a deep concern,” Patel, who has been forced out of the next two IPL games, told the reporters here on Wednesday.   

The left-arm spinner, though, was quick to add that the team was “ready to face the challenge”. 

Asked about team’s inconsistent run in the tournament so far, Axar said: “The last match was a bit tough and it ought to be when there is someone like MS Dhoni batting at the other end. Luckily we survived.” 

“The team is happy with the performance and the shortcomings were discussed to make improvement in our game. Even in the second match (against RCB), we came close to winning but could not get the desired result,” he said. 

On Thursday’s match against Sunrisers, the 24-year-old said: “Sunrisers Hyderabad is a good side and have won all their matches. Hopefully, we will stop their winning streak on Thursday,” said Axar. 

The Gujarat cricketer picked up an injury in the last match against CSK and will be out of action in the next two matches. “I had a minor injury in the last match. The playing eleven is yet to decided and it’s possible to see some changes. I am recovering well and hope to be available after two matches,” he said. 

Moody backs team

Sunrisers Hyderabad coach Tom Moody, meanwhile, told his batsmen to play their natural game against Kings XI.  “The message I have given to our top order is just to go out and play your natural game,” Moody said when asked what message he had for his team ahead of the Thursday’s match. 

Asked about the form of Manish Pandey and Yusuf Pathan, who have not looked in touch so far in the championship, Moody said: “I am not going into the negatives. I am very comfortable with the way everyone is preparing 

and playing at the moment. Everyone will get their opportunity to step up and play a significant role in helping us get over the line.” 

On the threat from an in form Chris Gayle and KL Rahul, the Australian said: “We had a healthy discussion around not only those two players, but every player that we feel has a chance of playing for the Kings.”