West Indies captain Darren Sammy said he was ecstatic after scoring the winning runs that propelled Sunrisers Hyderabad into the playoffs of the Indian Premier league on Tuesday.
Sunrisers defeated Kolkata Knight Riders by five wickets to secure the final playoff spot at the expense of Chris Gayle’s Royal Challengers Bangalore.
Sammy hit Kolkata Knight Riders’ most successful bowler on display Iqbal Abdulla for two sixes in two balls to hasten Hyderabad’s entry.
“It feels brilliant after getting there,” said Sammy, who hit a 12-ball unbeaten 17 in Sunday’s game. “We played really good cricket here and it’s fantastic to finish our last home game in some style. It was a good send off for the Hyderabad crowd.”
Chasing 131 for a win, Sunrisers Hyderabad made heavy weather of the chase and found themselves needing a tricky 11 runs from 9 balls.
Sammy held his nerve to twice clear the ropes and finish the match in style. It was a ressult that ensured Sunrisers a berth in the qualifiers.
Going into the qualifiers their last match result against Sunrisers too would be a great confidence booster for them.
Sunrisers had defeated Rajasthan Royals comprehensivley at Hyderabad a few days back, and Sammy expressed happiness that his team has stood up in times of adversities.
“We were with our backs against the wall and one of us had to stand up,” said Sammy.
“There is no better feeling than to stand up for one’s team.” Sunrisers will now face Rajasthan Royals in the playoffs’ eliminator game on Wednesday.
