Pietersen undeterred

Delhi Daredevils skipper Kevin Pietersen put up a brave front after his team’s third defeat stating that they are “not far off” from their second win although he complained about the lethargy in the first six overs.

“I guess the guys were a little bit lethargic in the first six overs but were brilliant from overs six to 20.

“But the first six overs were important as one needs to get the momentum. I think Finchy (Aaron Finch) played a fantastic knock,” Pietersen, who played his first game of the tournament, said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

The former England batsman felt that his team would very soon win a few games to get their campaign back on track.

“It was a great game and we played a lot better. We are not very far off. If we get out of the line once, we could be back,” Pietersen said.

Pietersen also said that his fractured little finger has healed completely.

Winning captain Shikhar Dhawan agreed that since the top three batsmen, Finch, David Warner and himself got runs, it became easier.

“Great feeling to win the first match of the tournament. It would certainly boost our confidence.

“Today was a day when the top three clicked. Aaron and Warner had a great partnership which set it up,” Dhawan said.

Dhawan also lauded coach Tom Moody for his efforts.

“He is doing a wonderful job. He gives beautiful lectures and motivates the team.”