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We never allowed fear of losing to come in, says Samson

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Last updated on 15 May 2022 | 08:43 PM
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We never allowed fear of losing to come in, says Samson

RR bounced back from a big defeat against DC to beat LSG by 24 runs on Sunday

Rajasthan Royals skipper Sanju Samson felt that the good atmosphere within the dressing room has contributed in the team bouncing back from an eight-wicket defeat against Delhi Capitals to win against Lucknow Super Giants on Sunday.

RR defended 179 on a tricky Brabourne surface after managing to reach a par score without a single fifty from their batters.

Samson said that there wasn't discussed after the loss against DC.

"There wasn't much to discuss because we have been playing good cricket in the 12-13 matches so far. Its very normal in a tournament like IPL to lose games. Its important for us to not doubt ourselves after losing and allow fear come in. That's why we are keeping the atmosphere chill in the dressing room and during meetings," Samson said at the post-match press conference.

Opener Yashasvi Jaiswal (41 off 29 balls) was once the top scorer for RR while Devdutt Padikkal added 39 off 18 balls with every batter contributing in double figures after Orange Cap holder Jos Buttler was dismissed for two runs. Samson was pleased with the collective team effort.

"That's what our team is all about. Each and every one who went in to bat showed the intent and contributed 10-15 runs which was crucial. We have a lot of match winners and its all about playing their role in that moment," he said.

After enduring a nervy moments in the middle of the season, Padikkal continued his good form with an anchor role. Samson felt that his 32-ball 31 in a tough game against Punjab Kings helped the lefthander's confidence.

"There is not much time to overthink in this tournament. You back your hitting ability. Devdutt Padikkal took some time to think about his batting and played the anchor role against Punjab which got his confidence up. Today he was once good which is great news for the team," Samson said.

KL Rahul felt that the plan of holding back Marcus Stoinis, who walked in No.6, was to utilize his hitting prowess at the end. The Australian scored 27 off 17 balls, but unable to take his team over the line as wickets fell at the other end.

"We are trying to utilize players who best suit the situation. For us, Marcus is one of those players who has the brute force and can be really dangerous at the back end. It's the reason why we picked him for the role of a finisher," he said.

Chasing 179, LSG managed 154/8 in 20 overs after their top three were dismissed for 29 runs on the board. Rahul felt that it was difficult for the finishers to perform their role when the top order doesn't set up the platform.

"The team needs the top order to set up the game for someone like Stoinis and Jason (Holder) to come in and finish the game which hasn't happened unfortunately," he said.

"Losing three wickets for 30 is never ideal to chase 170-180. It was the turning point for us," Rahul added.

LSG, who are third in the table, need to win against Kolkata Knight Riders in their final match as Rahul admitted that the team is under pressure ahead of the game.

"Yes, there is a bit of pressure. I won't lie. We all know that no points come easy. We've had to learn that the hard way when we could've been sitting here having qualified. It's one game for us a team to challenge ourselves," Rahul said.

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