David Hussey, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)mentor, said that the team is still breathing — and is optimistic that his side can reach the playoffs despite KKR suffering a defeat against Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
Chennai Super Kings defeated KKR by six wickets in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 on Thursday 29th October following which Mumbai Indians became the first team to qualify for the playoffs this season. KKR are currently placed on the fifth spot with 12 points.
David Hussey: KKR Are Still Breathing In IPL 2020 And Hope To Win Next Match Against Rajasthan
Kolkata Knight Riders have played 13 matches out of which they have won 6 and lost 7 thereby accumulating 12 points. Mumbai Indians qualified with 16 points in 12 matches.
“We have put ourselves in this position by losing games. But we are still breathing in the competition. The next game is against Rajasthan,” Hussey said during the post-match press conference.
“In a few days’ time, we are going to recharge our batteries and come out and play free-flowing cricket. You never know what could happen, results go our way and we can shock few teams in the playoffs,” he added.
For KKR, Nitish Rana scored 87 off 61 balls, but the rest batsmen could contribute more than 26. For CSK, Lungi Ngidi picked 2 wickets conceding 34 runs. KKR will next play Rajasthan on 1st November.
David Hussey: CSK Should Be Credited For The Deserving Win
CSK chased down the target of 173 with six wickets in hand. Opener Ruturaj Gaikwad played a knock of 72 runs, while in the end, Ravindra Jadeja played quick innings of 31 runs off just 11 balls to take the side over the line.
David Hussey admitted that CSK played well in the match and deserved to win.
“Every defeat is difficult. But full credit to Chennai, they deserve the win. I think they bowled and field well and then they chased the total,” he said.
Amongst the KKR bowlers, Lockie Ferguson conceded 54 runs in 4 overs while Kamlesh Nagarkoti too conceded 34 runs in three overs. Pat Cummins and Varun Chakravarthy picked two wickets each.