On this day, May 1, 2016: Axar Patel helps Kings XI Punjab beat Gujarat Lions in a low scoring thriller. It was the 28th match of the Indian Premier League 2016 played between Kings XI Punjab and Gujarat Lions. Murali Vijay and Marcus Stoinis opened the batting for KXIP after they were being put into bat first. KXIP started really well with the openers putting up a 65 run partnership in quick time and they dominated the powerplay.
Stoinis departed for 27 as Kings XI Punjab lost their first wicket with 65 runs on the board. Gujarat Lions were excellent in the middle as they pulled things back brilliantly. KXIP lost four wickets as they went from 65/0 to 73/4 in a matter of few overs. Shivil Kaushik was excellent picking up three wickets which helped Gujarat Lions comeback in the game. Murali Vijay completed his half century and ensured that Kings XI Punjab were getting a good platform.
David Miller and Saha stitched up a crucial partnership as Kings XI Punjab finished with 154 at the end of the innings. They were bowled out but it was a good score on that tricky surface which was helping the spinners. The game was in the balance at the halfway mark. Chasing the target, Gujarat Lions lost plenty of wickets in the powerplay and were well behind in the game. Gujarat Lions lost five wickets within seven overs with the score less than 40 and were in all sorts of trouble.
Ishan Kishan and James Faulkner counter attacked and put up a good partnership to bring Gujarat Lions back in the game but it was too late as the required rate kept climbing. Kings XI Punjab were excellent with the ball with Axar Patel picking up four wickets and completely denting the chase. Gujarat Lions were bowled out for 131 as Kings XI Punjab won the game by 23 runs. Axar Patel was the player of the match for his terrific performance.
