Always like to perform in crunch times: Thakur after four-fer against PBKS

Delhi Capitals started the 2022 IPL season in perfect fashion, with a win over the Mumbai Indians. But inconsistency both with the bat and the ball hurt the franchise mid-way through the season, constantly faltering at the middle of the IPL table. 

However, now the resurgent Delhi side, with wins over Rajasthan and Punjab, their first consecutive win finds themselves within touching distance of qualification. The 17-run win has made the side one of the favourites to go through to the next stage of the competition. 

Just like the franchise, their star bowler, Shardul Thakur had a tough start to the season but his four-wicket haul against PBKS ultimately has put the franchise in pole position to advance for the next stage of the tournament. 

“I always like to perform in crunch times, the last two games were important and I always feel happy when I rise on the right occasion. Sixth over was a big over where I got two wickets, they were cruising and in both innings fast bowlers were going for runs in the powerplay and as soon as the powerplay ended, the runs stopped,” Shardul stated in the post-match presentation. 

“The spinners came in and did a good job. As a bowling unit we were trying it hit good areas, but after 12th over there was dew which is why we did not bowl Kuldeep Yadav. I'm preparing well and whenever I got the chance, trying to put some score and hoping I will continue my run with the bat,” Shardul concluded.

On the other hand, skipper Pant credited the team for putting on a show, winning consecutive games for the first time this season. Despite Warner’s early dismissal, Pant insisted that he ‘can’t be too hard’ on the Australian opener. 

“Throughout the tournament we have been losing one, and winning one game. That's something we wanted to change as a team and we got it. The change of pace from Livingstone was good, so it's part and parcel of the game. Can't be too hard on Warney (Warner) because he has been playing fantastic throughout the tournament,” Pant stated in the post-match presentation.