Kolkata Knight Riders seemed to snap a pattern of over-reliance on Andre Russell to defeat Kings XI Punjab rather convincingly on May 3 in Mohali to significantly boost their qualification prospects.
With six wins from 13, Kolkata’s progression still hinges on a couple of other factors as they are vying for one remaining qualification berth with four other teams. Punjab happen to be one of those teams, but with only five wins from 13 games, they need a bit of a miracle – or could have done with more batting depth a little earlier in the tournament.
The most pleasing aspect about Kolkata’s win against Punjab is that they did it without too significant a batting contribution from Russell. They chased down Punjab’s 183-6 with two whole overs to spare, despite the big Jamaican scoring a pedestrian (by his standards) 14-ball 24. Significantly, the Kolkata batting unit is coming good at the business end of the tournament.
What’s hot
Sr. Gill was surely proud tonight 💜
@RealShubmanGill #KXIPvKKR #VIVOIPL #KKRHaiTaiyaar https://t.co/8ushx9qNCd
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) May 3, 2019
Shubman Gill. The 19-year-old’s elevation to the top of the order is paying rich dividends. He followed up his magnificent 45-ball 76 against Mumbai Indians from the previous game with a more composed, unbeaten 65 against Punjab.
The drop activated Curran’s beast mode as went on to smash 55* off just 24 balls, 22 off which came in the final over of Punjab’s innings as the young all-rounder smashed Harry Gurney to all parts.
Russell was the next batsman to be dropped with Mayank Agarwal misjudging what should’ve been a simple chance at long-off. Instead he parried the ball over the fence as if Russell needed anyone’s help clearing the ropes. Russell lasted only four more deliveries, but the drop still cost Punjab 10 rapid runs.
What they said
🤜🤛#KKR pic.twitter.com/yGnu8enbYU
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 3, 2019
“I think he’s a terrific player”
– Kolkata skipper Dinesh Karthik sings praises of Shubman Gill
What they didn’t say
“If you’re doing the Bhangra, your son should play for Punjab”
– Ashwin has a request for senior Gill after he performed the traditional Punjabi dance
What’s next
It's a strong record against the northerners! 💪🏾
Today, let's make that 12 and get those 2 points! Come on, Royals! 🙌🏾 #HallaBol #DCvRR #RR pic.twitter.com/Eba1nUwfiz
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) May 4, 2019
A Steve Smith-less Rajasthan Royals fight for survival as they take on Delhi Capitals. Delhi have already qualified, but intensity should remain high as they will look for a spot in the top two.
