Punjab slumped to their third defeat, first in their own backyard, when Kolkata Knight Riders beat them comprehensively by eight wickets last night.
Inconsistent batting has been the chief cause of concern for the Adam Gilchrist-led side, which managed only 124/7 against KKR here after electing to bat first. RCB, on the other hand, displayed sensational batting in the win over Pune Warriors in their previous match.
Gayle`s sensational knock of 81 of 48, studded with eight sixes including five in a single over, helped the franchise snatch a thrilling last ball win over Warriors in Bangalore this week when they chased down a formidable 182.
Kings XI and RCB have so far played five matches each and are placed at number seven and eighth in the points table respectively, but the Bangalore side will go into this match high on confidence.
Punjab suffered two initial losses to start with and then had back-to-back wins under their belt, but slipped against KKR again, whom they had beaten only a few days back.
Inconsistent form of their top order, that includes Gilchrist, who pulled a hamstring in last night`s match, has been the local franchise`s main concern. The skipper is yet to hit a big knock, with yesterday`s 40 being his top score.
Gilchrist`s Aussie compatriot, Shaun Marsh has also not yet shown his full potential and the batting hero of last year`s edition Paul Valthaty has failed miserably and may face the axe.