IPL 2022 | ‘It was Russell muscle for serious,’ says KKR skipper Shreyas Iyer

Andre Russell's unbeaten knock of 70 off 31 balls, including eight sixes and two fours, helped Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) reach the target in 14.3 overs against Punjab Kings (PBKS) to register a six-wicket victory in Match 8 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 at Wankhede Stadium on Friday (April 1). At one point KKR were left reeling at 51 for 4. But Russell took charge from there, while Sam Billings (24* off 23 balls) played second fiddle to him, as the duo made a mockery of the chase.

KKR captain Shreyas Iyer lauded Russell for his extraordinary innings at the post-match Press conference. “It was such a relief to see him hit so clearly. Simply outstanding hitting - it was Russell muscle, for serious," he said. 

Earlier in the match, Umesh Yadav returned four wickets for 23 runs to skittle PBKS out for a modest 137 in 18.2 overs. It helped earn the ‘Player of the Match’ award, as well as the ‘Purple Cap’. Iyer heaped praise on Umesh as well during the conference.

"I was just having a chat with him (Umesh). He said he's getting older but I told him he's getting fitter and stronger. He's been putting in the hard yards at practice, I see him in the gym every time I go. He's hungry and wants the team to win. He's been a great colleague to work with," Iyer added.

KKR will next meet their nemesis Mumbai Indians (MI) on April 6 in Match 14 of the ongoing edition at Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune.