Rajasthan had a couple of Australian players to thank for their 8 wicket win against Hyderabad that enabled the Rahul Dravid led side to move up to the third spot on the points table.
James Faulkner came up with a splendid show with the ball picking up 5/20 from his four overs and became the first player to claim a five wicket haul in this edition of the Indian T20 League. Chasing 145, Shane Watson smashed an unbeaten 98 off 53 balls to help Rajasthan win by 8 wickets with 2.1 overs to spare.
Skipper Dravid was delighted with the efforts of Faulkner and Watson but expressed his disappointment at letting Hyderabad post a total of 144 after having them tottering at 29/6 at one stage.
Speaking after the match, Dravid said: "In the end, we got the job done. It was disappointing to allow Hyderabad reach 144. Shane Watson's batting makes any target look easily. He and Faulkner were excellent. We need to work on our death bowling."
Hyderabad captain Kumar Sangakkara said Watson's innings made the difference while the Sri Lankan praised Darren Sammy for his knock of 60 that enabled his side post a competitive total.
"We did not have a great start. Sammy, Mishra and Steyn batted well. 144 was a sporting total but Shane Watson's knock was the difference. Every game is important and we have to defeat some good sides to go ahead. The leg-spinners were the best bowlers right throughout the tournament but Watson's batting foiled our plans," Sangakkara said after the game.
Faulkner was named the Man of the Match for his fine show with the ball and the Australian said the wicket was assisting the quick bowlers during the initial period.
"I have had a good run so far and I am glad I contributed to the team's win. I had reasonable control tonight but I am lucky I got the second wicket off a loose ball. The wicket had a bit earlier on but Watson batted like a dream. The top order is batting well so I am glad I am not needed with the bat."
source:cricbuzz
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