Punjab aim to continue good form against RR

On Wednesday, Kings XI pulled off a stunning victory over Royal Challengers Bangalore in the latter`s backyard, a win that catapulted them to the top four teams leaving behind even defending champions Chennai Super Kings who have also suffered defeat at their hands in their own den.

It has been a great feat for the franchise, which started with two successive defeats and hamstring injury to their captain Adam Gilchrist even before the tournament had reached the midway stage.

Punjab have won five from 10 outings and have an upcoming game against struggling Deccan Chargers and table toppers Delhi Daredevils. They will also be hoping to win on home turf when they meet Rajasthan tomorrow and correct their home record which has not been good this season.

Former Pakistani all-rounder Azhar Mahmood`s presence in the side after his visa issue was resolved has meant that Punjab have struck the right balance.

The 37-year-old Mahmood, now a British national, seems to have infused new energy in the side, which looked down in the dumps at one stage.

The aggressive medium pacer has not only impressed with his wicket-taking abilities earning three scalps in the previous match and holding his nerve in crunch situations, but also made useful contributions with the bat.

Stand-in captain David Hussey`s leadership has revived the sagging fortunes of the team and he has also struck some brilliant knocks making 255 runs in the tournament so far.

Under him, the team`s fielding seems to have improved a lot.