Follow UsPunjab Kings’ momentum came to a screeching halt after a seven-wicket loss against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on April 20 (Sunday). On a surface that was two-paced, PBKS could only manage 157/6 despite being in a very good spot, at 112/4.
But from thereon, the wickets tumbled in quick succession as PBKS’ high-flying train crashed at a higher pace. In the post-match press conference, their head coach, Ricky Ponting, revealed that the wicket was a whole lot better than 157.
“We did not bat well enough. That is the bottom line in this game. I think the wicket was a whole lot better than 157. We had a lot of batsmen got off to a good start, but they were unable to make those big scores. That's crucial in T20 cricket. And that's what made the difference," Ponting said.
Ponting further said that losing multiple wickets hurt his side in the match. "I think at the end of the powerplay we were 1 for 62. So straight away, there you are looking at a score of 180 plus, even pushing on to 200 if your middle order bats well, but we lost wickets in clumps again tonight," he said.
Always having a positive mindset, Ponting said that his side will focus on their next challenge against Kolkata Knight Riders after a small break and that the upcoming matches will be crucial for his side.
“We have got a nice little break. After three games in about five days, the boys need that little bit of time to freshen up and time to get away and forget about this result. We will make sure we focus on our next challenge against KKR, which will be a big game for us," he said.
Ponting further added: “Look, we are past the halfway mark now, we have got the five wins that we need to push on and make sure that we win a fair share of our games coming up."
"It's a little bit different this year for us. Normally, it's been just the two games in Dharamsala, this year, it's three. We have to make sure that it is a home ground where we win games. I am looking forward to getting up there," he signed off.
Punjab Kings will next face off against Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens on Saturday, April 26th.