IPL 2024: Sunrisers Hyderabad captain Pat Cummins credited head coach Daniel Vettori for the game-changing move of introducing Shahbaz Ahmed as the impact substitute in Qualifier 2 of the Indian Premier League (IPL).
In a departure from their usual reliance on pace bowlers, Sunrisers opted for spinners Shahbaz Ahmed and Abhishek Sharma at Chepauk, surprising many.
Shahbaz Ahmed’s all-round performance, contributing with both bat and ball, turned out to be crucial. He scored 18 runs and took three wickets, while Abhishek Sharma also made vital contributions with the ball.
Explaining the decision, Cummins revealed, “That was Vettori’s choice, left-arm orthodox and wanted as many left-arm orthodox as possible.”
Although Abhishek Sharma didn’t shine with the bat, he made amends by delivering impactful spells with the ball, dismissing key batsmen like Shimron Hetmyer and skipper Sanju Samson.
Cummins praised the spin duo’s performance, emphasizing their role in securing Sunrisers’ spot in the final, stating, “Those two won it with their bowling in the middle overs.”
Reflecting on the match, Cummins highlighted the team’s collective effort and positive atmosphere in the dressing room throughout the season. Despite setting a challenging target of 175, Sunrisers remained confident in their abilities.
Recapping the game, after winning the toss, Rajasthan Royals opted to bowl. Heinrich Klaasen’s quick-fire 50 propelled Sunrisers to 175/9.
In response, Sunrisers’ spinners stifled Rajasthan’s chase, supported by disciplined bowling from the pacers. Rajasthan Royals fell short, managing only 139/7, resulting in a 36-run defeat.
With this victory, Sunrisers Hyderabad secured a spot in the final against Kolkata Knight Riders, scheduled to take place at Chepauk on Sunday.