'It was a total team effort,' says pollard after his match-winning knock against CSK

Mumbai Indians (MI) all-rounder Kieron Pollard, who scored a match-winning unbeaten 34-ball 87, says that it is performing against teams like Chennai Super Kings (CSK) is what people would remember and speak of for many years to come further adding that it was a complete team effort. Pollard's knock helped MI win by four wickets off the final ball in a thrilling encounter in Delhi.

"There are world-class players in CSK. We billed this match-up as the Clasico of the IPL. When you have international guys with so much experience. Faf du Plessis and Suresh Raina, guys that have done it time and time again," Pollard said at the post-match conference.

"You know you want to be able to come and perform in these sort of matches. These sort of things are what stands up when people speak about the individuals," the West Indian said.

The West Indies limited-overs captain feels that it is all about playing to your strengths and also important to do whatever the team requires.  "You know what we have done over the years. For me it is not about ratings, it is more about doing the job and winning the game for your team and that is what I have done," he said.

MI were set a target of 219, after fifties from Ambati Rayudu (72*), Moeen Ali (58) and Faf du Plessis (50), put the three-time champions in command.

Pollard added that it was a team effort. "There are a lot of guys who are talented in their own right, a lot of guys would have won cricket matches for their international teams and different franchises, so not to name anybody, but the guys have their talent," Pollard said after helping his side to their highest successful IPL run-chase.

"It was just nice to get an opportunity to bat a couple of overs and win the game. But again, it was a total team effort. The innings by Krunal (Pandya) was crucial. The skipper (Rohit Sharma) and Quinton gave us that start and then there were a couple of sixes by Hardik (Pandya)," he added.

Pollard has been a match-winner for Mumbai Indians over the years and he said for him it was about giving his best. "Over a period of time you are comfortable in a franchise and they believe in you. After so many years, you just want to continue to come out and perform for them."

"And perform yourself bright. So, for me it is just a matter of coming in day in and day out, trying to evolve as a cricketer, and trying to do my best, he said.

With this win, MI move to eight points from seven matches and are currently placed fourth in the IPL 2021 table. They take on Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Tuesday (May 4) in Delhi.