IPL 2018, Qualifier 2, KKR vs SRH: 5 talking points

#2 Kane Williamson's brilliant captaincy

Williamson's plan to dismiss Andre Russell was an act of pure genius

To lose someone like David Warner was a big blow for Sunrisers Hyderabad no doubt, but the way Kane Williamson has steeped into the role has been outstanding.

The way he has led the side throughout this IPL campaign has been exceptional and he proved once again tonight, why he is considered as having one of the brightest minds in world cricket now.

The way he worked out Andre Russell was just pure class. Rashid Khan was in prime form tonight, and he had worked his magic to dismiss two key KKR batsmen - Robin Uthappa and Chris Lynn - with the latter's dismissal bringing the big-hitting West Indian into the middle.

It is no secret that Russell is not comfortable against spin bowling. So when Rashid came onto bowl his final over, Russell did the wise thing and was looking out to play out the over, before he could launch the offensive from the other end against the pacers.

Williamson was aware though of the importance of Russell's wicket and rung in the chances, bringing in a slip and short leg to unsettle the batsmen, and the move paid off right away, as Russell slashed hard at Rashid's googly only to be caught at slip by Dhawan.

It was a moment of inspired captaincy from Williamson and the bowler backed him up perfectly with a superb execution.