Published: May 04, 2016, 03:40 PM (IST)
Edited: May 04, 2016, 03:40 PM (IST)
Rajkot: Delhi Daredevils batsman Rishabh Pant, who made his maiden IPL half century against Gujarat Lions in his first match as an opener, said he just looked to play his natural game. “Obviously, it’s a good feeling to contribute something in team’s victory, all the staff members and captain have confidence in me, faith in me and I just justified their confidence and faith,” Pant said after Daredevils beat Lions by eight wickets here last night. FULL CRICKET SCORECARD: Gujarat Lions vs Delhi Daredevils, IPL 2016, Match 31 at Rajkot
Promoted to the opening slot, Pant smashed 69 runs off 40 balls with nine fours and two sixes. Pant, despite opening the innings for the first time, looked aggressive and reached his half century off just 25 balls. While chasing 150, Pant and Quinton de Kock (46) put on 115 runs for the opening wicket in 13.3 overs.
“The pitch was good to bat on and I just played my natural game. Zakbhai (Zaheer Khan) had told me that if you get an opportunity to play grab it with both the hands, and I just did that. He told me to not think too much about the game and how to play, don’t take pressure and play your natural game and main thing is that I just played my natural game,” Pant said.
“Zak bhai has a different fielding placement in every game, because we have plan for every game and try to execute our plan on the field,” Pant added.
Pant playing his playing his third IPL game, showed why he was so highly rated by DD mentor Rahul Dravid. Pant was purchased by DD for a massive price of Rs 1.9 crore. Pant took a special liking to the spinner who were hammered. Pant brought up his fifty in just 25 balls which already included 8 boundaries and 1 six. De Kock who is more established of cricketer between the two, took his time and let the young lad display his thunderous batting show.
