IPL 2021: Graeme Swann And Parthiv Patel Puzzled By Kolkata Knight Riders’ Batting Approach Against Rajasthan Royals

Former English cricketer Graeme Swann has said that he was confused with Kolkata Knight Riders’ batting approach during their IPL 2021 encounter against Rajasthan Royals. Former Indian cricketer Parthiv Patel also agreed with Swann’s opinions, pointing out that KKR didn’t use Andre Russell well in the match.

Kolkata Knight Riders lost the match to Rajasthan Royals by 6 wickets in the 18th game of IPL 2021. Kolkata Knight Riders’ poor batting show was a crucial reason for their defeat.

The Eoin Morgan-side managed a mere 133-9 in 20 overs while batting first at Wankhede Stadium, a ground popular for witnessing big totals. Rajasthan Royals managed to chase the target with ease, grabbing the victor in 18.5 overs.

Not Sure What KKR’s Plan Was: Graeme Swann

While speaking to Star Sports, former English spinner Graeme Swann said that KKR’s plan in the match was very confusing.

“Well, I am not sure what his plan was. It certainly wasn’t about being aggressive. You expect them to go out and play aggressively, given they have Brendon McCullum as their coach. But 25 for 1 in the first 6 overs.

“Very, very confusing. I mean, the guys bowled well, the lefties (from Rajasthan) bowled well. There was a brilliant run-out as well. But the first 15 overs, it didn’t really seem like KKR were trying to hit boundaries. Very strange but maybe it’s one of those days when things didn’t work for them,” Graeme Swann said.

Parthiv Patel agreed with Graeme Swann’s words. He also pointed out that KKR didn’t use Andre Russell well.

“I agree with Swann. There was no intent there. Some of the shots they played, some of the run-outs, it seemed as if they were not looking for runs. In the first 6 overs, you have to take your chances.

“You can’t just block it out, especially on a wicket like this. They did not utilise Andre Russell. In the kind of form he is, he can’t play only the last 4 overs,” Parthiv Patel said.

Andre Russell, who smashed a quickfire fifty in the last match against Chennai Super Kings, arrived at the crease in the 16^th over. He got out soon managing 9 runs off 7 balls. Rajasthan Royals’ Chris Morris played a big role against KKR batsmen. The South African pacer scalped 4 wickets for 23 runs to crush KKR batting in the match.

With the loss, Kolkata Knight Riders have moved to the last 8th spot in IPL 2021 points table. They have won just 1 game out of 5 in the tournament so far. KKR will lock horns with Punjab Kings in their next encounter of IPL 2021.