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AB de Villiers Hails Shikhar Dhawan's 'Refreshing' Batting Performance vs RR

image-lg4p0y8yDhawan scored a brilliant fifty vs RR [AP Photos]

Shikhar Dhawan's stunning performance in the match against Rajasthan Royals left former South African cricketer AB de Villiers in awe. The Punjab Kings captain, along with Prabhsimran Singh, hit brilliant fifties to help his team secure a five-run victory over the Royals on Wednesday in Guwahati.

The former Proteas captain praised Dhawan's ability to get an inning together for the team, but also acknowledged the contribution of his opening partner Prabhsimran in taking the pressure off him.

 "He is an incredible player. To get that inning together for the team. Let’s not forget about his partner up front. He manipulated the ball and took his game really well, until he found a sniff," de Villiers said in an interview with JioCinema.

The southpaw initially played second fiddle to Prabhsimran and was struggling with the bat, scoring 30 off 30 balls. However, he put his foot on the accelerator after Prabhsimran's dismissal and scored 56 off the next 26 balls he faced. De Villiers was impressed with Dhawan's ability to switch gears effortlessly and play unconventional shots.



The 39-year-old specifically highlighted Dhawan's reverse six off Jason Holder in the 18th over as a standout moment in the match. He noted that he had never seen the Indian veteran play like that before and was impressed with his ability to move around the crease and play unconventional shots.

" To be honest, I haven't seen him play like that. It is refreshing and I think he has got a lot of runs in him this season," concluded the former RCB batter.

Dhawan's unbeaten 86 off 56 balls helped Punjab Kings reach a challenging total of 197 for 4. Despite a valiant effort from Rajasthan Royals, who scored 192 for 5 in their 20 overs, they fell short by five runs. The PBKS skipper's performance in this match must surely have boosted his confidence and it will help him deliver more high-scoring innings in the ongoing IPL season.