RCB’s hopes for IPL playoffs took another hit as they lost by 25 runs to Sunrisers Hyderabad, prompting Flower to acknowledge that each of their remaining matches must be approached as semifinals.
After suffering their sixth defeat in seven IPL matches, RCB’s coach Andy Flower likened their remaining games to the semifinals, stressing the urgency to bounce back. Despite a disappointing 25-run loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad, Flower remains optimistic about his team’s resilience.
Admitting the challenges faced, Flower acknowledged the tough outing against Sunrisers, especially with their record-high total of 287 runs for the loss of just 3 wickets. Reflecting on the daunting performance, he conceded it was a demanding night for RCB, with Hyderabad’s strong finish dampening their spirits.
“It is obviously knockout time and every game is like a semifinal for us now. But we will have to think that we will come back stronger,” Flower said on RCB Game Day.
“It was a really tough night in the field, of course, as they finished so powerfully that it probably took the wind out of our souls,” he added.
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Despite the loss, Flower also highlighted positives from their chase, particularly Dinesh Karthik’s impressive 83 off 35 balls and Faf Du Plessis’ quick 62 off 28 balls. The coach expressed pride in their batting fight and aims to build on it.
“I am really proud of the way we fought with the bat out there in the middle. We lost the game but I was really proud of the way we fought. Dinesh Karthik is really making a push for the World Cup team (of India) as well and is only getting better on the field,” he said.
RCB will play their next game against Kolkata Knight Riders at the Eden Gardens on April 21.
Last Updated on April 16, 2024
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