'Doing my best to increase my strike rate': PBKS Star
Dhawan scored a match-winning fifty [AP Photos]
No other batter is as consistent as Shikhar Dhawan in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Leading the Punjab Kings (PBKS) this season, Dhawan scored an unbeaten 86* against the Rajasthan Royals last evening, helping his franchise win their second consecutive match in IPL 2023.
Dhawan, along with Nathan Ellis, and Prabhsimran Singh starred for Punjab in yet another last-over win against the Royals by five runs.
The 37-year-old has often been criticised for his slow strike rate, slammed 86 off just 56 balls, which included nine fours and three towering sixes. In the post-match presentation, the out-of-favour Indian opener said that he is focusing on improving his strike rate.
Dhawan, who at one point scored 30 off 30, slammed his next 56 runs in just 26 balls.
Here's what Dhawan said
"These two matches, we've gotten a great start playing well and I'm doing my best to increase my strike rate. The wicket brings momentum back quickly. This year we have a deep batting lineup so we keep momentum going hitting boundaries and put pressure on the other team. You have to respect that the other team has come to play and will bowl some good overs as well but we have to keep the intent and aggression going,"
The left-handed batter opted for some unconventional shots during the back end of his innings, like switch-hits and ramp-shots, which surprised the likes of AB de Villiers and Anil Kumble in commentary.
The Kings captain further lauded the bowlers for restricting the Royals to under 197 despite wet bowling conditions thanks to dew.
With two wins under their belt, Punjab will go up against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Sunday.
 "Vishal Mehra")