By KKR skipper Shreyas Iyer shared how he had faith in young pacer Harshit Rana during the tense final over against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Kolkata, on Saturday (March 23). Despite Heinrich Klassen’s stunning assault putting KKR in a tight spot, Harshit’s over turned the tide. Mitchell Starc’s expensive penultimate over left KKR vulnerable, but Harshit’s strategic change of pace led to crucial wickets, securing a 4-run victory for KKR.
“Right from the 17th over, butterflies filled my stomach,” Shreyas admitted post-game. “The last over was unpredictable with 13 runs needed and Harshit, lacking experience, at the helm. Yet, my belief in him never wavered. I saw his potential for heroism. I reassured him, emphasizing our support regardless of the outcome. His nerves were visible, but my message was clear: seize this moment, focus on execution, and the result will follow. And history was made,” he recounted.
Andre Russell’s explosive batting, with an unbeaten 64 off 25 balls, and Sunil Narine’s economical bowling, conceding just 19 runs off four overs, underscored the veterans’ impact. “Their experience is invaluable,” Shreyas reflected. “Russell’s all-round performance and Narine’s precision with the ball showcased their immense talent, proving a boon for the team.”
Shreyas Encouragement to Harshit
Phil Salt and Ramandeep Singh also played pivotal roles. Ramandeep’s rapid 35 off 17 balls, including four sixes, surprised SRH, showcasing his potential under pressure. “Ramandeep’s innings was a game-changer,” acknowledged SRH head coach Daniel Vettori. “It shifted the momentum, allowing Salt to play freely.”
Regarding SRH’s team selection, Vettori explained the rationale behind the balanced approach of choosing two overseas players for both batting and bowling, leaving out Travis Head and Glenn Phillips. “It’s always tough making these decisions,” he conceded. “Our aim was to balance the squad, hence the 2-2 split between batting and bowling to complement our local talent.”
