Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) all-rounder Andre Russell on Friday (1st March) revealed that he middled only 1 out of the 8 sixes that he hit against PBKS in Mumbai.

Andre Russell’s superlative effort with the bat helped KKR register their second win of the IPL 2022. After bundling out PBKS for just 137 runs, the Shreyas Iyer-led side was in a spot of bother as they found themselves tottering at 51/4 while chasing the low total. 

The all-rounder then smashed Punjab Bowlers all over the park and completely change the complexion of the match. He stitched an unbeaten 90 runs partnership with Sam Billings, who scored 24 runs, and helped his side chase the target with 33 balls to spare. 

Read Also: Cricket fraternity in awe as Andre Russell’s whirlwind 70* ensures KKR’s clinical win over PBKS

Russell reached his half-century in 26 balls and finished with a score of 70* from 31 balls to win the match for his side. He attacked Harpreet Brar in the 10th over, scoring 17 runs, and then smashed 23 out of 30 runs in the 12th over of the innings which was bowled by Odean Smith. His knock was laced with 2 fours and 8 maximums. 

Speaking after the match, Andre Russell expressed his delight in winning the match for his side. He said that he was confident and knew what he can do in pressure situations. 

He revealed that he told Sam Billings that he’ll go after the bowlers and he backed his ability. Russell also quipped that among the 8 sixes he hit, he only middled one.

"Feeling awesome, 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 who can rotate and help us stick through the tough time. 

“Once I started sweating, I just said that I am gonna go. I backed my ability and that's what I did tonight. I am happy to bring the team over the line. I am going to say one," Andre Russell said. 

KKR will be next seen in action against Mumbai Indians on April 6 at MCA Stadium in Pune.

(India Today inputs)