Follow UsRoyal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) succumbed to their third defeat in four matches in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, with the latest coming against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on April 2 (Tuesday).
LSG fast bowler Mayank Yadav bowled another hostile spell as he did against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on March 30 (Saturday) in Lucknow. His three wickets on that day saw him walk away with the Player of the Match award, and the same thing happened on Tuesday when his spell of 3/14 was good enough to derail a strong batting line-up like that of RCB.
Mahipal Lomror came in as an impact player with 43 balls remaining, with RCB 88 away from victory. He scored 33 of 13, but with no support from the other end, RCB fell short by 28 runs.
Lomror revealed that the plan against Mayank was to use his pace against him since he was clocking over 150 KMPH consistently.
“I have faced against Mayank in local cricket a couple of times. I know a bit about his bowling and what he brings to the table. The plan was to use his pace against him since the Chinnaswamy ground is a short one, and the ball flies over here. But there were a few mistakes. We need to be clear about what to do when someone is bowling at 150 KMPH regularly," Lomror said during the post-match press conference.
Speaking of his role as an impact player this season, Lomror said that the clarity of the role given by the team management has helped him practice accordingly.
“It started with when I met the management this year. They were very specific about my role. They told me that the team has a very strong batting unit and it would be hard to give me a chance at the top, so I would bat down the order and get less balls to face," Lomror said.
"During our practice sessions, I am just trying to hit from the very first ball. I am trying to improve my hitting power and get myself in that zone where two to three overs are left, and I have to go big from the first ball."
He also revealed that the experienced duo of Dinesh Karthik and Glenn Maxwell are always there to support him and give him plenty of advice when needed. “They are always available for chats. I batted with DK in both the matches, he is a big supporter," the southpaw said.
"Whenever he is at the other end, it makes the game easier for the other guy. He is an experienced campaigner and knows batting in pressure situations. He always asks me to focus on my job and stay calm. Whatever happens on the previous ball does not matter, we have to win the next ball. Maxi is my go-to guy when I need some help and do not feel well."
With just one win in four games so far, RCB will hope that they turn things around soon, starting with the match against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on April 6 (Saturday) in Jaipur.