Mumbai Indians defeated Delhi Capitals by five wickets in the final to become only the second side after Chennai Super Kings to win consecutive IPL titles. Although Delhi lost the final, Shreyas Iyer & Co played some brilliant cricket throughout the tournament to entertain the fans.
Batting first, Trent Boult got Mumbai Indians off to another fiery start with a wicket off the first ball negating the Marcus Stoinis threat. Delhi Capitals were in danger of being blown away on the big stage reeling at 22 for three in their first IPL final ever.
While Mumbai Indians unleashed all their cards, Delhi Capitals skipper Shreyas Iyer held the fort high alongside Rishabh Pant, who was due for a big knock. They led the recovery steadily before threatening to explode towards the end. But Mumbai Indians pulled off giving away just 20 runs off the final three overs and restricting Delhi Capitals to 156 runs.
In pursuit, Rohit Sharma & Co looked in complete control of the run chase. Rohit played a captain’s knock while Quinton de Kock and Suryakumar Yadav gave brisk starts. Ishan Kishan played another gem of a knock unbeaten on 33 off 19 to take Mumbai Indians home as Shreyas Iyer looked completely out of options against a heavy batting line-up.
Speaking at the end of the game, Shreyas Iyer stated IPL as the greatest league across the globe. He also vouched to come back stronger next after finishing one step away from lifting the title.
“The IPL always amazes you, it’s one of the toughest leagues to play. I’m overwhelmed to be part of it, and I’m really proud of my boys, the way they have played to reach the final, it’s not easy. Winning the IPL would have been better, but we will see to it that we lift the trophy next year,” Shreyas Iyer said.
Speaking further, Shreyas Iyer also thanked head coach Ricky Ponting for giving him the freedom to express. He also showered praise on the former Aussie captain for his motivational speeches inside the dressing room which helped every player to get charged up.
“Ricky, the amount of freedom he gives us is outstanding. THe way he motivates players is simply amazing. His team meetings and motivational speeches it quite incredible,” he concluded.
