Three wins in a row had infused confidence in Punjab team

CHANDIGARH, MAY 2 (UNI) If Kolkata Knight Riders suffered three defeats out of the five encounters they had then it 'is their problem', Kings XI Punjab coach Tom Moody said today.

Addressing a press conference on the eve of their crucial night match, Mr Moody said Kolkata, led by captain Saurav Ganguly, have world class players in their line-up.

Replying to a question whether, Kings XI Punjab have advantage over Kolkata at the PCA Stadium, Moody said "Kolkata has not played here. Punjab have played on this home pitch. It will be an added advantage." "Kings XI Punjab players are playing positive cricket and showing improvement with every game. All individuals are doing their job well. Last three triumphs out of five have given players confidence," according to the Punjab coach.

When asked about the position of James Hopes, he said "Hopes is with us. He has not played due to shoulder stiffness." He added that "Shaun Marsh, son of Australian wicketkeeper Geoff Marsh has exciting prospects for future. I am not surprised with his unbeaten knock of 84 in maiden appearance in the IPL. He has been selected for the West Indies tour after the IPL." Kolkata Kinght Riders coach John Buchanan from Queensland said "after losing three matches and playing against Kings XI Punjab would be a challenge for us." Ganguly-Shane Warne incident at Jaipur matter has been discussed and it is not an issue since it has been dealt by the Indian Premier League. We are concentrating on playing cricket, Moody said.

It may be recalled that Ganguly and Warne were fined 10 per cent of their fee for violating the ICC rules during the match between Kolkata and Rajasthan Royals.

John also clarified that Umar Gul's statement on Saurav Ganguly's captaincy had been misinterpretted. In twenty-20 format mnay things were to be worked out.

"Shane Warne is a good captain and he is both bowling and batting well. Ganguly is also a great captain," said John.

As Brett Lee and Simon Kaitch have returned to Australia, Kings XI Punjab may miss them. However, they have Irfan Pathan, S Sreesanth and young VRV Singh as fast bowlers in Punjab teams. Youngsters will now get chance in second phase of the tournament.

Kolkata Knight Riders will miss Ricky Ponting and New Zealand wicketkeeper Brendon Mccullum. The Kolkata team were at nets in the evening as they arrived from Jaipur this afternoon.

UNI XC PDT KP2236