The Rajasthan Royals make an emphatic statement and win against Kings XI Punjab in IPL 2020. Skipper Steve Smith remained unbeaten alongside Jos Buttler as RR chase down the target of 186 with ease.
The 22 yards at Abu Dhabi flattened out in the second half and became ideal for batting. The RR batsmen took full advantage of the conditions and dominated the bowlers of KXIP. They negotiated the threat of their two wrist-spinners Murugan Ashwin and Ravi Bishnoi and never allowed them to settle during the chase.
Rajasthan Royals Win By 7 Wickets
At the top order, it was Ben Stokes once again who carried his good form and played a punishing knock. The all-rounder 50 from 26 deliveries and set the tone for the rest of RR batsmen.
Once he departed the likes of Robin Uthappa and Sanju Samson carried on the good work and kept batting aggressively. Eventually, RR chased down the target in the 18th over itself and stopped KXIP’s run of 5 successive wins.
It’s About Peaking At Right Time- Steve Smith
Earlier in the match, it was Chris Gayle who put on a batting masterclass and took his side to a competitive total. The ‘Universe Boss’ fell one short of his century and was dramatically dismissed on 99 by Jofra Archer. The fast bowler was the standout bowler for the Royals as he in his 4 overs gave away just 26 runs and picked 2 wickets.
Meanwhile, after their impressive win RR are still in advancement for reaching the playoffs. KXIP on the other hand are also hanging on and would need to win their final league match with a healthy run rate.
Here’s what the winning captain Steve Smith said in the post-match presentation.
“Ebbed and flowed. But would have been great to win a few in the middle. But it is about peaking at the right time. We still need to do our bit, We have different plans as to who goes in after who gets out. Gave Buttler a chance to bat at number 5. Nice to get over the line comfortably. Helps the NRR. The last two games he has been exceptional”.
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“Has good innovation, Hits the ball in weird areas. He (Stokes) is a valuable player. One of the best in the world. You are always talking to players and try to get the best of them. We know if he spends time in the middle, he will come good. A couple of games tomorrow, we will be matching them closely and then good to go day after”, said Steve Smith.
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