KKR opener Venkatesh Iyer has become an overnight superstar after his match-winning knock against Mumbai Indians. Courtesy his knock, KKR beat Mumbai Indians for the first time since 2019. Iyer scored 53 off 30 balls as KKR chased down 156 with almost five overs to spare. In the process, KKR broke into the top four of the points table.
During the chase of 156, Iyer scored 53 off 30 balls, with the help of four boundaries and three sixes. Batsman Rahul Tripathi, who came in at no. 3, played a ravishing knock of 74 not out off 42 balls, guiding KKR to a 7-wicket win.
After the game, Ventakesh Iyer spoke about his admiration for former Indian skipper Sourav Ganguly and his dream of playing for KKR.
“Honestly, KKR was the first franchise I wanted to get in because Sourav Ganguly was the captain initially so I wanted to get into KKR first. Got picked by the franchise so it was a dreamy moment for me. Everyone was very welcoming, I got a lot of gifts. I am a huge fan of Dada, he has got millions of fans around the globe and I am one of them. He has played a huge role in my batting, indirectly,” Iyer told teammate Rahul Tripathi in a video posted on iplt20.com.
Wanted to Replicate Dada: Venkatesh Iyer
Want to get to know @KKRiders' newest batting sensation Venkatesh Iyer❓
Stop everything & watch his post-match chat with @tripathirahul52. 😎 😎 – By @28anand
Full interview 🎥 👇 #VIVOIPL #MIvKKR https://t.co/dTAlRQ2eM3 pic.twitter.com/aSQ8gqaNof
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) September 24, 2021
Iyer also spoke about how he changed batting to left-handed from right-handed after watching Ganguly when he started taking interest to cricket.
“I used to bat right-handed when I was very young but I wanted to exactly replicate Dada, how he hit sixes and the way he batted. He has played a very big role unknowingly in my life. I was really waiting for my opportunity and I knew I am going to get my chance,” he added.
KKR play two tough games next against Chennai Super Kings and Delhi capitals in a bid to stay within the top four for a playoff qualification.
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