Two-time Indian Premier League champions, Kolkata Knight Riders started their IPL campaign off to a winning start as Delhi Daredevils’ poor form in the IPL continued. After putting the Daredevils into bat first, KKR decimated the batting lineup of the Zaheer Khan-led side as they were bowled for a mere 98 in 17.4 overs.
In reply, the KKR openers, Gautam Gambhir and Robin Uthappa continued their good form from the previous seasons as they put in a 69-run partnership for the first wicket. The foundation set by the openers were enough as they chased down the target with 35 balls to spare.
In the two matches that have been completed so far in the IPL, although there has not been much action to be excited about, many from the cricketing fraternity took to social media to give their opinions on the low-scoring match between KKR and DD.
Delhi Daredevils captain, Zaheer Khan: “You learn every day. I was trying to swing the ball too much. I was playing after a long time. I was happy to see the effort of the fast bowlers. Every team is going to have one bad game, hopefully we've got that out of the way. We're just giving our young batting line-up freedom.
“They are quick learners, they've got the energy. We are happy with our plans and preparation. It's just about letting this team express themselves on the field freely.”
Man-of-the-match, Andre Russell: “We just have to adjust to any surface. That is where professionalism comes into play. It wasn't the fastest of wickets, it wasn't slow either. If I get a chance to bat, I'd go out there and do something destructive.
“When things are going your way, you need to find ways to stay up there. I thought the wicket wouldn't spin that much, but credit to Brad Hogg and Piyush Chawla for backing me up. Well played to captain and Uthappa as well.”
Kolkata Knight Riders captain, Gautam Gambhir: “We were very professional. Russell got to Kolkata this morning. The way he started with the ball was commendable. He is a quality player. Once we restricted them to 98, it was half the job done. We aren't used to playing on these kind of wickets, that is why we decided to bowl first.
“In our chase, someone had to bat through. That is what professional teams do. It was my responsibility to do that. Robin was unbelievable, to give us that kind of start was fantastic. We've covered most of our bases, so we are happy with whatever surfaces we get.”
Indian commentator, Aakash Chopra:
Indian commentator, Harsha Bhogle:
Former Indian Women's captain, Anjum Chopra:
Former Australian leg-spinner, Shane Warne:
Australian fast-bowler, Kane Richardson:
Former Indian cricketer, Murali Kartik:
Former Indian cricketer, VVS Laxman:
Indian domestic cricketer, Parvinder Awana:
Brand-new app in a brand-new avatar! Download CricRocket for fast cricket scores, rocket flicks, super notifications and much more! 🚀☄️
