'Gilchrist, Lehmann can help Punjab win the title'

Adam Gilchrist and Darren Lehmann have done it in the past, albeit for a different team, but their countryman David Hussey said the Australian duo has the ability to recreate the magic with Kings XI Punjab and lead the side to its maiden IPL triumph in the current season.

Gilchrist, as captain and, Lehmann as coach, were the vital cogs in Deccan Chargers’ triumphant campaign in 2009.

“They worked really well together at the Deccan franchise. They had tasted success in 2009 and hope their partnership can repeat the same for Kings XI Punjab this season. The duo of Gilchrist and Lehmann brings a wealth of experience with them. We are looking forward to put up a great show in the tournament,” Hussey said.

“Gilchrist is a class player. Any team would benefit from his wealth of experience.  Lehmann, as a coach, is great for the franchise. I am hoping that the combination will regenerate the same impact,” he added.

Kings XI Punjab have never won their opening game in the previous five editions of the IPL and Hussey said they would look to change the history with a win over Pune Warriors India in their first game on April 7. “It’s going to be a tough game for us, playing away from home. It’s going to be difficult. In the history of the IPL, Kings XI have not won their opening game and we would look to rectify that and win our first game to start the tournament on a solid note,” said the 35-year-old.

Hussey said the team has a good blend of overseas and Indian players going into the sixth edition. “What Gilchrist and Lehmann have put together is not a star-studded team but a team that really plays for each other. We are confident of putting up a good show this time around,” he said.