New Zealand all-rounder James Neesham, who is making a comeback in IPL after six years is backing Kings XI Punjab to go all the way. KXIP have players like Glenn Maxwell and Chris Gayle in their ranks and the Kiwi all-rounder believes that with the two of them in the side, Punjab will back themselves to win a lot of matches for them and hopefully the title as well.

In a chat with PTI, Neesham spoke on the chances of KXIP lifting the trophy this year. The last time they played here in 2014, Punjab reached the finals and that was the only time they did so. They are the underachievers reaching the playoffs only twice in 12 seasons.

Neesham backs KXIP to go all the way

“This time I have come with a steadier head and knowledge under the belt and hopefully I can pass that knowledge to some of the younger guys in the squad. Really excited about our team, we got some of the biggest names in the world in Chris Gayle and Glenn Maxwell and it is a team that can certainly win a lot of games and the tournament,” Neesham said. 

Jimmy Neesham, who last played in the IPL for Delhi Capitals (then Delhi Daredevils) was brought by the Priety Zinta owned franchise. The Kings XI roped him in for 50 lakhs. Jimmy is making a comeback to the IPL being far more experienced than he was six years ago.

“It is my first time getting involved in a long time. It is exciting to come as an older player and as an experienced player. Last time I played for Delhi. I did not know what I needed to do to succeed. It was a challenge back then,” Neesham further told PTI.

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Glenn Maxwell who skipped IPL 2019 due to mental health concerns is also making a comeback this year. He is back with the team with whom he has been most successful. Maxwell scored 1186 runs from 2014 to 2017 for the side.

Meanwhile, KXIP are based in Dubai and are busy practising. They will play their first game against their northern rivals Delhi Capitals on September 20 in Dubai.