'In a Position Where We Have Nothing to Lose', Says Ben Stokes
IMAGE: COLLECTED
|| India Correspondent ||
Rajasthan Royals kept their hope alive with the convincing seven-wicket win over Kings XI Punjab on Friday, courtesy, their stunning batting show. While chasing 186, RR reached the target in 17.3 overs where all their batsmen contributing quite well and Stokes top-scored with 50 off 26 as well.
Stokes, who won the Man of the Match award, said at the post-match presentation that they're in a position where they have nothing to lose and they have to express themselves.
"The sixes are always pleasing. I went in the same mentality like I did against MI - just wanted to go hard at the new ball. We had a decent couple of days break from the last game. We normally have a quick turnaround. We had a couple of good training sessions, I cut down on the bowling part in the break just to remain fresh," he further added.
On the other hand, Steve Smith, the captain, said that they're happy to be in the playoffs race, although he stressed that it would be nice to have some more wins in the kitty.
"Having said that, if that happens, we are playing very good cricket. The Samson run-out was unfortunate, but you take positives from every situation. It gave Jos a chance to bat after a five-day break. He hit them well so this is a good sign. Nice to get over the line comfortably. Helps the NRR,” he shared.
"Ben is a class player, plays proper shots, hits balls in weird areas, and did a job with the ball too. One of the best in the world. Sanju started the tournament really well, then in the middle couldn't get going, but that is T20 cricket. You have got to keep trusting the process. We know if he spends time in the middle, he will come good. We will be watching couple of games tomorrow closely and then good to go day after. We'll know then about margins, and the NRR," he concluded.
