TATA IPL 2024: Phil Salt praises Eden Gardens Pitch after Unbeaten 89

By siliconindia  |  Monday, 15 April 2024, 11:15:36 AM IST

TATA IPL 2024: Phil Salt praises Eden Gardens Pitch after Unbeaten 89
Phil Salt's scintillating innings of 89 not out from 47 balls propelled Kolkata Knight Riders to a resounding eight-wicket triumph over Lucknow Super Giants. Following the match at Eden Gardens, Salt expressed his fondness for batting on this particular pitch, highlighting its similarity to conditions back home. His explosive knock, which included 14 boundaries and three maximums, marked his second half-century of the season and ensured KKR's victory with 26 balls to spare, consolidating their second position in the points table with eight points.
Salt credited the improvement in batting conditions to the onset of floodlights, which added moisture to the pitch, aiding the ball to slide on better. He lauded the Eden Gardens surface for its conducive bounce, enabling batsmen to play shots square of the wicket. The Player of the Match recipient was well-supported by captain Shreyas Iyer, who contributed a run-a-ball 38 not out, as the duo forged a crucial 120-run partnership for the third wicket, delighting KKR's home supporters on Bengali New Year Day.
Despite the challenging weather conditions, Salt maintained his focus with encouragement from his teammates, particularly acknowledging Shreyas Iyer's role in keeping him on task during their partnership. He expressed joy at securing another victory at home and highlighted the positive impact of KKR's overseas players and coaching staff, as well as the return of Gautam Gambhir to the team.
KKR's bowling effort, spearheaded by Mitchell Starc's figures of 3-28 and Sunil Narine's economical spell of 1-17, played a pivotal role in strangling Lucknow Super Giants during the middle overs. Narine emphasized the importance of maintaining control during the game, particularly in the power-play, to achieve favourable outcomes.
Narine also commended Salt for his consistent performances throughout the season, expressing hope for his continued success. With two consecutive victories at home, KKR's spirits are high as they aim to carry their momentum forward in the ongoing IPL 2024 season.
Source: IANS

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