Published: May 21, 2013, 03:22 PM (IST)
Edited: May 21, 2013, 03:22 PM (IST)
Darren Sammy has been crucial for Sunrisers Hyderabad as they reached the playoffs of IPL 2013 © IANS
Hyderabad: May 21, 2013
West Indies captain Darren Sammy said he was ecstatic after scoring the winning runs that propelled Sunrisers Hyderabad into the playoffs of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2013.
Sunrisers defeated Kolkata Knight Riders by five wickets on Sunday to secure the final playoff spot at the expense of Royal Challengers Bangalore.
Sammy hit Kolkata Knight Riders’ most successful bowler on the day Iqbal Abdulla for two sixes in two balls to hasten Hyderabad’s entry.
“It feels brilliant after getting there,” said Sammy, who hit a 12-ball unbeaten 17 in the match.
“We played really good cricket here and it’s fantastic to finish our last home game in some style. It was a good send off for the Hyderabad crowd.”
Chasing 131 for a win, Sunrisers made heavy weather of the chase and found themselves needing a tricky 11 runs from 9 balls.
Sammy held his nerve to twice clear the ropes and finish the match in style.
“We were with our backs against the wall and one of us had to stand up,” said Sammy. “There is no better feeling than to stand up for one’s team.”
Sunrisers will now face Rajasthan Royals in a playoff game on Wednesday.
