Chennai Super Kings (CSK) rode on a blistering 65 off 23 balls by Urvil Patel to defeat Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in a high-scoring IPL encounter at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Sunday. Patel, who replaced the injured Ayush Mhatre, smashed eight sixes and two fours at a strike rate of 282.6, including a record 13-ball half-century that left the Chepauk crowd in awe.
Overton praises Patel's fearless approach
Jamie Overton, who was named Player of the Match for his all-round performance, said Patel's knock was nothing out of the ordinary. “That’s just how Urvil plays. He does the same in training — it was only a matter of time. What stood out was him being disappointed after hitting a four following six sixes in a row. That sums up how these youngsters think — they take it on from ball one and aren’t afraid,” Overton said. The English pacer also took three key wickets to help CSK defend their total.
Patel credits skipper Gaikwad
Patel, who put on an 81-run stand with captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, credited his skipper for giving him the freedom to express himself. “There wasn’t much going through my mind. I just wanted to bat according to the situation. Rutu only said the wicket was a bit low and to be ready for it. Otherwise, he let me play my natural game,” Patel said.
Inglis' knock in vain
Despite Patel's heroics, LSG's Josh Inglis played a stunning knock of 85 off 33 balls, but it wasn't enough to take his team over the line. LSG captain Rishabh Pant praised both batters. “Urvil played an unbelievable knock, much like Inglis did for us. We knew someone had to take charge in the powerplay. In the end, CSK held their nerves better,” Pant said.
The win helped CSK consolidate their position in the IPL points table, while LSG will look to bounce back in their next match.
