`We had a plan`: Abhishek says Ishan Kishan delivered exactly what SRH needed

Sunrisers Hyderabad’s dynamic opener Abhishek Sharma, who recently surpassed the 4,000-run milestone in T20 cricket, believes that a big innings from Ishan Kishan was long overdue. Kishan’s explosive knock against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Ekana Stadium on Friday finally delivered the fireworks Abhishek had anticipated, as SRH posted an imposing 231/6 in the 18th season of the IPL.

Abhishek’s brief but electrifying stint at the crease spanned just 17 deliveries, but it was packed with intent and power. He capitalised on every opportunity to find the fence, racing to 34 runs with three fours and three sixes, before falling victim to a clever slower delivery from Lungi Ngidi.

During this whirlwind knock, the left-hander also crossed the significant 4,000-run mark in T20s. He began the innings with a close call, nearly dragging the ball onto his stumps on the first delivery. But from there, he switched gears immediately, partnering with Travis Head to give SRH a ferocious start. Head, true to form, continued his aggressive style until both openers departed in quick succession, victims of their ultra-attacking strategy.

Reflecting on their innings, Abhishek acknowledged the need for greater accountability from the top order.

“I think when we (Head and he) played the first over, we thought we got one of the best pitches this year. Somewhere, we have to look out for our small mistakes. We need to take responsibility and take it to the end. Head and I were looking forward to scoring a total of 230-240 only,” Abhishek remarked post-innings.

With both openers back in the dugout, Kishan took charge and anchored the innings with remarkable composure and timing. His unbeaten 94 off 48 balls was a masterclass in controlled aggression. He built partnerships, kept the scoreboard ticking, and ensured SRH maintained a brisk run rate throughout.

This innings marked just his second significant contribution of the season, following his century earlier in the campaign. Kishan’s calm head and aggressive strokeplay made all the difference for SRH on the day.

“We had a plan, and we were going to go after it (throughout the innings). The score is good. I think it was pending from his (Kishan`s) side. He was talking about this. This score is because of Kishan only; the way he played was tremendous,” Abhishek concluded.

(With ANI inputs)

This article first appeared on Mid Day