I backed my ability, says Russell after his six-blitz helps KKR win

TIL Desk Sports/ Kolkata Knight Riders’ batter Andre Russell said he backed his ability to clear the field as the big hitter went on a six-hitting spree to help rescue his team from a precarious position and lead them to victory in a IPL 2022 match against Punjab Kings here on Friday.

Chasing a modest target after pacer Umesh Yadav had claimed 4/23 to restrict Punjab Kings to a paltry 137 all out after being asked to bat first, the Knight Riders were in trouble at 4-51 at one stage before Russell and Sam Billings raised 90 runs for the unfinished fifth-wicket partnership to guide KKR to a six-wicket victory at the Wankhede Stadium.

Russell blasted eight sixes and two fours as he remained unbeaten on 70 while Billings finished with 24 not out to seal KKR’s second victory in their third match in IPL 2022. Russell said he knew what he could do in that situation and therefore told Billings that he was going to go after bowling.

“Feeling awesome, man. This is the reason why we play the game. In that position, I know what I can do. It was good to have someone at the crease like Sam (Billings). Once I started sweating, I told him that I’m gonna go. I backed my ability. I’m happy to do whatever the team requires,” Russell said after the match.