SunRisers Hyderabad skipper Pat Cummins couldn’t hide his satisfaction when Harsha Bhogle informed him about the rain in Guwahati, the venue for the match between Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals on Sunday (May 19). The Aussie, with a grin, remarked, “That’s a shame!” This reaction was a nod to SRH securing the second spot on the table after their four-wicket victory over Punjab Kings earlier in the day.
With SunRisers currently holding the second position, Rajasthan Royals needed a win to overtake them. However, if the match in Guwahati were washed out due to rain, Cummins and his team would retain the second spot, setting up a clash against Kolkata Knight Riders in the first qualifier. Conversely, the Royals would have to face the in-form Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
SRH’s victory over Punjab Kings at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium was convincing. Punjab posted a formidable 214 runs in their 20 overs, but the home side chased it down with five balls and four wickets to spare.
“Excited for what’s ahead” – Pat Cummins
Pat Cummins celebrates SRH’s win (Credits: Twitter)
At the post-match presentation, Cummins praised Abhishek Sharma for his fearless approach and noted how challenging it would be for any bowler to face him. The Australian bowler also expressed his excitement about the upcoming playoffs, regardless of the opponent.
“It’s pretty cool, it’s awesome. We have won 6 out of 7 here, it has been great and amazing. I didn’t know many guys coming into this season, but we have played great cricket and had some fun. Great bunch of guys. He (Abhishek) is amazing. I wouldn’t want to bowl to him. It’s scary as he plays with freedom, not only against pacers but also against spinners,”
Cummins said. “I haven’t played in finals before, we’ll know in a few hours which game it is. Playing some really good cricket, excited for what’s ahead,” he added.
The SunRisers’ first and only IPL title came in the 2016 edition of the league. With their current form and strong performances, Cummins and his team are poised for another potential shot at the championship.
