Riding on the opening partnership of 135 runs between Graeme Smith and Naman Ojha, Rajasthan Royals defeated Kings XI Punjab by 78 runs in an IPL match played at Kingsmead on Tuesday (May 5). The Royals set a mammoth total of 211 runs in their 20 overs after being sent to bat first by Punjab skipper Yuvraj Singh. South African big man, Smith amassed 77 runs off just 44 balls with 12 fours and one six. On the other hand, Naman Ojha blasted 68 off 51, hitting five sixes and five fours.

 

In reply, Kings XI could make 133 in 20 overs because of some tight bowling from Royals bowlers. Pacer Amit Singh from Royals picked up three wickets by conceding nine runs in his four overs. Playing his debut match in the IPL, Amit Singh took two wickets in his first over. With this win, Rajasthan Royals claimed the second spot on the points table. Both Naman Ojha and Smith punished the Punjab bowlers to all parts of the park. The duo even did not spare tournament's successful bowler Yusuf Abdullah. He gave away 44 runs in just three overs.

 

Returning from injury, S Sreesanth could not perform well as he was punished for 44 runs in four overs. After registering a comprehensive win over Punjab, captain of Royals, Shane Warne appreciated the efforts of Graeme Smith and Naman Ojha. While on the other hand, Yuvraj Singh said that his bowlers gave away too many runs. Kings XI Punjab will now play against Chennai Super Kings while Rajasthan Royals will face Bangalore Royal Challengers. Both the matches will be played on Thursday (May 7).