Kings XI Punjab failed as a batting unit against Kolkata, says Gilchrist

Comprehensively beaten on their home turf by Kolkata Knight Riders, a disappointed Kings XI Punjab captain Adam Gilchrist said his team failed as a batting unit.

"It was a combination of some poor batting (by us) and very good bowling by KKR. We have been inconsistent. We got off to a decent start, probably one of the better we have had in five games, but that was cut short when I came off (retired hurt).

We haven't put together a comprehensive batting display at all. There is no doubt about that," 40-year-old Aussie told reporters after the match last night.

Batting first after winning the toss, Kings XI could manage only 124/7 in their allotted 20 overs.

Losing opener Paul Valthaty early, Gilchrist tried to maintain pace by hitting some quick runs but pulled a hamstring and was retired hurt.

Punjab's middle-order tumbled without any significant contribution and only one six for his side was hit by Gilchrist in the final over when he returned at the end of 17th over.

He also top-scored, remaining unbeaten on 40, his best score so far in the tournament.

Asked how serious was his injury, "I will sit with the physio and find out, whether I will need a scan or not. When I was out there (off the field), it didn't get any worse."

Punjab started their IPL-5 campaign losing two games before winning their third game against Pune Warriors here last week and then going on to beat KKR at Kolkata and going down to them here yesterday.

"We've got to play better than what we have, as a general rule. We have to play better cricket. We are not far off the post ad we obviously feel we can improve," he said.

Punjab batsman Shaun Marsh (33) was controversially dismissal when he edged a Brett Lee delivery with wicketkeeper Manvinder Bisla nodding that he had taken the catch and on-field umpire ruling him out even though TV replays suggested there was a doubt.

Asked what he felt about the catch, Gilchrist said, "on replays, I am not convinced with that. I thought there was a huge element of doubt there".

"Shaun asked the wicketkeeper, which I must say, is fairly the way how I opt to play the game. He asked the wicketkeeper he said yes he caught it, so he walked off". Cricket Country