RCB vs RR: Hazlewood badly ruined his luck, celebration of victory in Bengaluru|
Rajasthan Royals needed 40 runs in 18 balls and the entire stadium went silent. But as the score reached 18 off 12 balls, everyone’s breath went blank. But Josh Hazlewood, who was already very effective, gave only 6 runs in his 3rd over and got Shimron Hetmayer out on a perfect hard length, after this there was hope of victory for RCB. And this victory was his first home win.
Hazlewood first bowled an off cutter which skidded, then a wide which Dhruv Jurel edged and was declared out after DRS. He then got Jofra Archer out on the next ball, the momentum of the match changed in two balls and RCB won the match.
Hazewood bowled 4/33 in his final figures and won the Player of the Match award. Fans and Head coach also praised him:
“I would highlight both the last overs as they conceded only 7 runs and took 3 wickets. Hazlewood is a class operator and a clear thinker under pressure and a skillful bowler,” said Flower.
Flower also praised the other two companions of RCB’s pace attack – Bhuveneshwar Kumar and Yash Dayal:
“Bhuvi has been tremendous throughout the season, and Yash showed a lot of maturity today. Seeing his yorker bowling in the last over, it seems that we have a solid fast bowling trio.”
RCB’s spinners Krunal Pandya and Suyash Sharma also laid the foundation of defending 205 runs strongly. Both gave only 62 runs in 8 overs. Krunal dismissed Riyan Parag and Nitish Rana. He has got his 12th wicket so far, which is equal to the best records of 2018 and 2019. He got a wicket at home for the first time, that too on the first ball.
“Krunal was a targeted pick in the auction. His IPL winning experience, captaincy experience, and international exposure were what we needed,” said Flowers.
Correct use of sin in the middle overs and staying clam in pressure moments was a game changer for RCB. Patikar and Devdutt Padikkal’s excellent batting contributions also helped them gain momentum.
Dedutt’s 50 runs in 27 balls and Virat’s 70 runs in 42 balls gave us a solid platform on a pitch that was not so easy,” Flowers said.
Now RCB have 3 more home games left. This win can be a spark in their playoff race. Flowers said:
“It is not easy to lose a toss and defend a target in every home game. But in today’s match our bowling and fielding turned the match around. The fans are also longing for this win.”
