IPL 2021: Hopefully we will qualify for the playoff stages – Shubman Gill

Kolkata Knight Riders opening batsman Shubman Gill is hopeful that the franchise will qualify for the playoff stages.

KKR had not got off to a good start in the first phase of IPL 2021 as they could only manage two wins in the seven matches they played.

However, the Eoin Morgan-led team resumed their season on a high as they comprehensively won against Royal Challengers Bangalore by nine wickets at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi on Monday.

KKR came up with a fine bowling performance as they were able to skittle RCB at a paltry score of 92 runs after Andre Russell and Varun Chakravarthy scalped three wickets each.

On the other hand, Shubman Gill and debutant Venkatesh Iyer added a fine alliance of 82 runs for the opening stand. Gill got back to form as he scored a quickfire 34-ball 48 runs. The youngster added they wanted to make a statement and improve their Net Run rate. KKR was able to chase down 93 runs in 10 overs and climbed to fifth place in the points table.

“We wanted to make a comeback from where we were; it was a bold statement. Hopefully, we will continue and qualify for the playoffs. It was a good opportunity to get our run rate going; that was the plan, and happy to execute it,” said Shubman Gill after KKR’s win.

Meanwhile, Venkatesh Iyer also impressed on his debut as he scored an unbeaten knock of 41 runs. Iyer gave good support to Gill and the latter revealed that the former had impressed in the practice sessions and thus he was given the opportunity to make his debut.

“Venkatesh Iyer was batting well in the practice matches as well. To bat and have such a great performance on debut is pleasing. My return felt good, except the way I got out, but hopefully, I’ll complete my fifty in the next game.”

Gill added that the pitch played better in the second innings as KKR had no issues in chasing down the paltry target of 93 runs.

“After the powerplay, it was good to see Varun and Sunny coming into the mix with the ball. It was a bit slow when we bowled and much better in the second innings, with the ball coming on pretty nicely,” Shubman Gill further added.

KKR will next face MI at the same venue on Thursday.