"Exceptional character, attitude shown by team," says KKR skipper Shreyas Iyer

After securing an emphatic eight-wicket victory over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at Eden Gardens, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Shreyas Iyer praised his team for displaying robust character and a strategic approach to the game. This win marked KKR's first against LSG in the Indian Premier League (IPL), bolstered by Phil Salt’s dynamic half-century, Shreyas Iyer's solid batting, and Mitchell Starc’s sharp bowling, which included a three-wicket haul.

In his post-match comments, Iyer reflected on the team's performance: "It was a comprehensive victory. Our bowling under pressure was top-notch, and the way we wrapped up the game really put the cherry on top. Given the heat and the dryness of the pitch, we focused on delivering slower balls, minimizing half-volleys, and challenging the batsmen to hit over the top, which we executed superbly."

He continued, "Securing wickets at crucial intervals gave us the upper hand. The bowlers adapted brilliantly to every scenario I threw at them. Their character and attitude were exceptional."

Iyer also touched on the advantage of playing consecutive games at their home ground: "While playing five straight games at home is beneficial, we recognize the unpredictable nature of this tournament. It’s crucial to stay focused and proactive, ensuring we don't rely on others to secure our wins. Our aim is to maintain this momentum and stay aligned in our strategic approach."