Punjab Kings chased down the target of 135 runs vs Chennai Super Kings in the 13 over of the second innings.
PBKS skipper scored 98* in the game and was also the player of the match. PBKS needed to win the clash in 12.3 overs to make their net run-rate in positive but they took three more balls to seal the win.
“It was really hot today. Plan was simple. The numbers guys pulled up a few permutations and combinations. They said if we chase this before 14 overs it gives us the best chance. So the plan was clear and I had the licence to go from ball 1. One of those days when it comes off when you have complete clarity,” said KL Rahul, in the post-match presentation ceremony.
“All of them hit the middle of the bat. I don’t think I have creamed the ball that sweetly in some time,” he added.
KL finished with an strike rate of 233.33 in the match and said that he would be letting the team down if he starts playing the way he wants to.
“It was just what the team needs. I know there has been a lot of talk in the last 3-4 years about my strike rate and me playing slowly. But only my team and I know what my role and what my responsibility is. I tried to play the role the team requires of me every game. I feel I am letting the team down if I play the kind of cricket I want to play,” the Punjab skipper said.
“It’s always team first for me. That’s how I have grown up and that’s how I will continue to play. Today the team needed this. I was happy that I could play this kind of knock,” he added.
However, in the next match KKR sealed a big win vs RR that confirmed PBKS’ exit from the tournament but the way KL Rahul played will definitely boost India’s campaign for next month’s T20 World Cup.
