Kings XI Punjab have rarely been able to make a genuine push for the title in the Indian Premier League.
Their biggest surge was during the inaugural edition where they were semi-finalists but since then have floated around in mid-table while also dropping to the bottom of the standings in 2010.
However, it could all change this season, believes Glenn Maxwell who showed how it can be done with an audacious 95 off 43 balls at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium on Friday to floor heavyweights Chennai Super Kings.
The 25-year-old Australian is hot property in the format and he made a grand entry into the league last season when he was bought by Mumbai Indians for $1 million.
Maxwell did not earn a regular spot in the star-studded team’s title march, scoring 36 runs in three matches at an average of 18. The new season, though, has brought good tidings for the dashing all-rounder.
He earns the same wages as last year but is assured of a place in the new team’s playing XI.
Maxwell celebrated it by powering Punjab to a stunning victory in a high-scoring game with his careerbest score in the Twenty20.
“Having a regular spot does make a difference. It a nice feeling,” he told Sport360° yesterday.
“It is a lot different at Kings XI. The Mumbai Indians had an unbelievable squad with lot of international experience and had all bases covered. The expectations were high from the start to win every match and the IPL.
“At Kings XI, the goals are different. There is little external pressure so the focus is to improve in each game. We are not known as a big powerhouse team.
“Hopefully, we can change that perception this year and be there at the business end of the tournament,” he added.
Maxwell’s ability to counter pace and spin alike, make quick adjustments and get after the bowling will be needed in big measure for Punjab to make a bid for the title.
They have started in earnest with an eye-catching win in their opening game and will be hoping to extend the momentum when they take on Rajasthan Royals in their second match at Sharjah today.
Rajasthan, who sneaked to a last over win against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Friday, hold a 8-3 advantage over Punjab in 11 meetings.
With Maxwell in such roaring form, that equation could change soon.
