In one of the most incredible run-chases in the history of the IPL, Rinku Singh’s five-sixes-in-a-row feat helped Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) pull off a stunning victory against Gujarat Titans on Saturday.[expander_maker id=”1″ ] After Alzarri Joseph and Rashid Khan’s wickets put Gujarat Titans in the driver’s seat, KKR’s left-handed batsman Venkatesh Iyer and last hope Rinku Singh had a mammoth task to achieve. While Iyer had kept KKR in the game, five wickets in quick succession dimmed the chances of a victory. Rinku’s final-over heroics, however, turned the tables and took KKR to their second victory in the tournament.
Iyer admitted that he and the KKR dugout had ruled out a victory from the equation when they were chasing 48 off 18 balls. “To score 40-odd runs of three overs with not a lot of batting left, I didn’t believe it could happen. We knew that Yash Dayal was going to bowl the last over, and he is an amazing bowler, but it wasn’t his night.” Rinku had his plans in place, though. He revealed that his intention was to react to every ball and not overthink the situation at hand.
Rinku’s five-sixes-in-a-row performance was exceptional and is likely to go down as one of the most memorable moments of the tournament. The victory has propelled KKR to the second spot on the IPL table with two wins and a healthy Net Run Rate. They have another four days to relax and prepare for their next game against Sunrisers Hyderabad at Eden Gardens on Friday.
The IPL has seen some incredible come-from-behind wins, but Rinku’s heroics on Saturday were one for the ages. Not only did he pull off an unimaginable feat, but he also gave the KKR dugout belief when all seemed lost. This victory will undoubtedly give them the confidence they need to push for a playoff spot.
It is important to note that this KKR team is filled with young talent and a mix of experienced heads. Their captain Nitish Rana has emphasized the importance of keeping things simple, and the team has bought into this philosophy. KKR has also assembled a brilliant coaching staff, headed by former Australian captain Ricky Ponting, who brings with him a wealth of experience.
Furthermore, the team spirit and camaraderie within the KKR camp have been apparent. The celebrations that followed Rinku’s heroics were a true testament to the bond that exists within the team. It is this unity that has allowed KKR to punch above their weight and take down some of the more fancied teams in the tournament.[/expander_maker]