Published: May 06, 2017, 04:22 PM (IST)
Edited: May 06, 2017, 04:22 PM (IST)
Coming into bat at 61 for 4, Akshar Patel‘s all-round performance ensured an easy victory for Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) versus Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at Bengaluru. Akshar made a handy 38 off 17 balls, with 3 fours and 2 sixes, before turning the heat with the ball. He picked the important scalps of Shane Watson, Pawan Negi and Samuel Badree to completely outfox the hapless opponents. With this win, KXIP remain alive in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2017 and have a chance to qualify for the playoffs. Nonetheless, the left-hander does not want to bog down and is eager to continue with his form to push hard for a place in the national side. Full Cricket Scorecard, Kings XI Punjab vs Royal Challengers Bangalore, IPL 2017, Match 44
“The first time I played for India, I got a chance after performing well in the IPL. IPL has now become a good platform for youngsters to flourish. I am trying hard to enhance my chances of a comeback by performing well and pushing the limits. I want to continue my form”, Akshar was quoted as saying by PTI.
Akshar concluded by adding, “We are targeting match by match. The plan is to not put too much pressure on ourselves and play our normal game. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) will be a tough opponent if we meet them in the playoffs provided we qualify. They have a strong batting line up.”
He also spoke about Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) Kuldeep Yadav, who in a way is Akshar’s competitor for a national spot. “Kuldeep Yadav has done well. I have played with him a lot. He is the youngster who is doing so well. In future, he will do really well for India,” Akshar concluded.
