RR beat Punjab by 26 runs |
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Run-rate was not a problem for Punjab, though, as they managed 51 runs in six power-play overs.
Opener Murali Vijay was in exquisite touch as his
well-timed boundaries were a treat to watch. However he too was run out. The run-rate dipped as Royals tightened their grip over the proceedings.
Punjab needed 71 runs from seven overs and Dhawal Kulkarni inflicted a big blow by removing dangerous David Miller (23), who had just hit a gigantic six off Southee.
Punjab batsmen struggled to maintain required run-rate, leaving a lot of work for skipper Bailey to do. He had no choice but to go after the bowlers.
His one such attempted big shot was plucked by an
airborne Southee but since the Kiwi feared crossing the boundary ropes with ball in his hand, he threw it back and Karun Nair showed immense presence of mind to catch it.
