Rajasthan Royals fast bowler Trent Boult has played a key role in the success of the franchise, especially while bowling in the PowerPlay overs.
It is well known that Boult can get the new ball to swing both ways in the first six overs and he did exactly that against Lucknow Super Giants at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai on Sunday.
While defending 179 runs, Boult dismissed dangerous Quinton de Kock early as James Neesham took a good low catch at backward point. Ayush Badoni was promoted by LSG’s think tank but the move didn’t work as Boult plumbed the youngster in front of the wickets with a fine inswinging delivery.
The New Zealander returned with impressive figures of 2-18 in his quota of four overs and he played a key role in restricting the opposition at 154-8. Thus, RR won convincingly by 24 runs and they have taken a step closer to the playoff doors. Furthermore, Boult played a fine cameo of 9-ball 17 to help his team post 178 runs on the board.
Boult was awarded the Player of the Match and he said in the post-match match presentation, “Some days are better than others. Nice to get wickets at the top. I have got a simple game with the ball. Good catch from Neesham. The boys did talk about some intensity as this was a crucial game for us. I am surprised that I am talking about my batting in a press conference. We can bring our right attitude and chase a ball. I think this is a tough place to bowl. I am enjoying myself here at a new franchise. A great opportunity.”
On the other hand, Yuzvendra Chahal got the important wicket of Deepak Hooda, who scored 59 runs for LSG and he was threatening to take the game away from RR. Chahal has been impressive throughout the season and once again contributed to the win.
Chahal said after the game, “We needed that win. For us to finish in the top two, we had to win this match. I was a little bit disappointed with myself but I’ll definitely come back in the next game. When Hooda was batting so well, the leg-side was shorter, I didn’t want to take any risk. I tried to bowl a couple of flighted balls, and he tried to hit sixes, so I didn’t want to give any extra runs. That’s why I tried to bowl a little bit quicker tonight. (On his performance this season) When you contribute to the team, you’re always happy with that. Everyone is doing well, it’s not like not only two people are performing. In every match, you can see 2-3 match-winners. (On Wanindu Hasaranga) Whatever he’s doing, I am happy for him because he’s like a brother to me. If he takes wickets, if Kuldeep takes wickets, I am happy with that.”
RR will next play against defending champions Chennai Super Kings at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai on Friday.
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