Shaun Marsh shares a special bond with the Kings XI Punjab. In the inaugural edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008, this affable Aussie joined the squad after missing a few games, played several match-winning innings to top the run-aggregate and ensured the team's place in the semifinals.
Back after a hamstring injury, the 27-year-old came up with his first major contribution in this year's IPL. His swashbuckling 71, built on a dream foundation provided by openers Adam Gilchrist and Paul Valthaty, was a show-stealer against former champion Rajasthan Royals on Thursday.
What stood out during Marsh's knock was the unleashing of three sixes off Shane Warne's over. “I wasn't thinking about it too much. I just thought if it's in my area, I'll have a go at it. I was lucky, a few overs before, that the ball landed short of fielders.
'Lucky'
“Lucky, it came off today. Just when I had come in to bat, I tried to play the same shot and it landed just before the fielders. I guess it was my night tonight,” said the left-hander stroke-maker to the waiting mediapersons after bagging the Man of the Match award.
Talking about the pitch at the PCA Stadium, Marsh said: “The pitch was pretty slow throughout. Paul (Valthaty) is batting unbelievably well at the moment and Adam (Gilchrist), too. I've been playing my natural game at No. 3 and it easier when the team gets off to a flying start.
“It's different (not opening the innings), but something that I'm enjoying. I have batted down the order for Western Australia and also for Australia. It's all about what suits the team best.”
He praised Gilchrist for showing the way in a team that has several new faces this year. “We have been working really hard to generate team spirit. We are led very well by Adam who gets the guys fired up and ready to go out in the field with confidence. We're lucky to have him as our leader.”
