-Says RCB
SHARJAH, United Arab Emirates, CMC – Royal Challengers Bangalore are pleased with their start to the new Indian Premier League season, especially with batting star Chris Gayle yet to take his place in the side because of injury.
The big-hitting West Indies opener has struggled with a sore back and has missed all three of RCB’s outings. With him sidelined, they won their two opening matches of the tournament before losing their third on Thursday.
Speaking ahead of their latest outing, wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel said when Gayle returned it would further strengthen RCB, adding to the side’s early momentum.
“I don’t think we are peaking too early, this tournament is all about momentum and we just want to win as may games as possible,” Parthiv said.
“Obviously we are a batting-heavy side, but our bowlers have done really well, restricting sides to 140 on a flat wicket.
“Our batting depth showed in the last game and once Chris comes into the team, it will obviously be a great boost for the team. He is a very big player for our team.”
RCB were outstanding in their first two matches. They restricted Delhi Daredevils to 145 before cruising to an eight-wicket win and then held Mumbai Indians to a meagre 116 in their second game before pulling off an easy seven-wicket victory.
They suffered their first defeat on Thursday when they failed to chase down a modest 151, to lose by two runs.
Gayle is expected to be fit for RCB’s next game against Rajasthan Royals.
