Trent Boult of the Rajasthan Royals (RR) has commended the team’s skill for recognizing and developing new match-winners when necessary, allowing them to take the lead in the standings with eight points from five matches. On Sunday, April 16, RR notably made a powerful statement by defeating the defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT), in Ahmedabad, with a thrilling three-wicket victory. At one point during the run chase, the Sanju Samson-led side looked out of the race; however, a sensational finish by Shimron Hetmyer (56* off 26) enabled the Royals to come away with two points.
Boult commended the RR batters’ eagerness to push the team to victory, stating after the game:
“Different guys standing up at different times has helped us win the game from different situations. Jos (Buttler) is a massive player for us, and I am sure he must be frustrated to miss out on some runs tonight. But the hunger from the rest of the batting unit helped us cross the finishing line.”
RR was in a dismal state at 55-4 due to incredible performances by GT’s bowlers. But thanks to Samson’s 60 off 32, Hetmyer’s fifty, and Dhruv Jurel’s 18 off 10 and Ravichandran Ashwin’s 10 off three, RR managed to claim victory with just four balls remaining.
“I would call myself lucky” – Trent Boult on his catch to dismiss Saha
RR’s win over CSK was a close one, but their left-arm seamer had to miss out due to a niggle. Boult returned to the playing XI for the crucial fixture against GT and made an impact with the new ball, taking the wicket of Wriddhiman Saha. As the catch was being attempted, Sanju Samson, Shimron Hetmyer, and Dhruv Jurel collided, causing the ball to pop out of Samson’s gloves. Fortunately, Trent Boult, who was in the middle of his followthrough, took the catch to dismiss Saha. Counting himself lucky, he stated:
“Crazy one, it goes high in the night skies. Obviously, in this amazing crowd, you can’t hear much. I would call myself lucky; probably just right place at the right time. It is a significant win. They had our numbers. It is satisfying to finish these close matches. There are some good vibes in the changing room as well.”