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Rajasthan Royals secure 26-run victory over Kings XI Punjab in the IPL

James Faulkner impresses as Rajasthan Royals grab a 26-run victory over Kings XI Punjab in the third Indian Premier League fixture of the season.

Rajasthan Royals have secured a 26-run victory over Kings XI Punjab in the third match of the Indian Premier League season.

Kings XI were given a total of 163 to chase down in 20 overs, but they failed to do so as they were restricted to 136-8.

It was a poor start for the Royals as Ajinkya Rahane was sent packing for a duck just 1.3 overs into the contest, while Sanju Samson shortly followed with just five runs on the board.

Steven Smith, who impressed in Australia's successful World Cup campaign, managed to steer the attack for the Royals by hitting 33 off 23 balls, but was eventually dismissed by national teammate Mitchell Johnson.

James Faulkner top-scored with 46 runs off 33 deliveries, while Anureet Singh took three wickets to restrict the royals to 162-7.

In reply, Kings XI were dealt a huge blow when opener Virender Sehwag was dismissed by Tim Southee for a duck in the first ball of the innings.

Murali Vijay ended up top-scoring with 37 runs off 32 deliveries, but it was the bowlers who took centre stage as Faulkner managed to nab three wickets.

Johnson was sent packing for a duck, while Axar Patel, David Miller and George Bailey were the only other players aside from Vijay to reach double figures.

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Virender Sehwag attends a training session at The Sardar Patel Stadium at Motera in Ahmedabad on November 13, 2012
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