Published: May 06, 2017, 08:47 AM (IST)
Edited: May 06, 2017, 08:48 AM (IST)
Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) kept their hopes of making it to the playoffs alive in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2017 after defeating Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Friday. Already knocked out of the tournament, RCB took on KXIP in Match No.43 at Bengaluru where once again their famed batting line-up failed to chase down 139 runs. Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle could only manage 16 runs together. This was largely due to some brilliant exhibition of swing bowling by Sandeep Sharma, who moved the ball both ways making life miserable for all the RCB batsmen. Full Cricket Scorecard, Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kings XI Punjab, IPL 2017, Match 43
Sandeep nabbed the trio of Kohli, ADB and Gayle in a matter of three overs to end up with figures of 3 for 22 from his quota of 4 overs. In the post-match presentation ceremony, Sandeep looked elated after picking up the dangerous three. “It is making me feel great (about picking three great T20 strikers). It is a dream come true for me, getting those key wickets. I’m very happy,” Sandeep added.
He also lauded team mentor Virender Sehwag for believing in him and guiding him on how to bowl under swinging conditions. “I have been talking to my coaches especially Viru who told me to swing the ball both ways and pitch it up. Any batsman will find it difficult to tackle swing,” Sandeep explained.
Speaking about the Bengaluru wicket, he said, “It was not a typical Bangalore wicket, it was not that flat, but there was assistance for the bowlers.”
Sandeep did sly in a tongue-in-cheek comment by saying how good a record he has against Kohli and Gayle. “I hold a good record against them (Gayle and Kohli) and I’m happy I got them again,” he quipped.
Speaking about KXIP’s upcoming games, Sandeep said he is happy to play in front of his home crowd, Mohali. “Next two games, we are playing in Mohali that is my home ground. Bangalore is my second home ground I’ve always done well here also,” he stated.
Sandeep on a parting note wished that KXIP do well and qualify for the playoffs. “I’m just hoping that we do well and win the remaining games to qualify for the playoffs,” Sandeep concluded.
