Sunil Narine revealed he was surprised and that he backed himself after scoring a half-century off just 15 balls against Royal Challengers Bangalore in Bangalore on Sunday, reported IANS. Narine became the joint-fastest fifty scorer in Indian Premier League history, tying with Yusuf Pathan who had done it in 15 balls in 2014.
“Yes, I’m very surprised. Definitely wasn’t expecting something like this,” said Narine at the post-match presentation ceremony where he was named the Player of the Match.
The 28-year-old has revelled in his new role as opener this season and in Bengaluru on Sunday, joined forces with Chris Lynn to smash an IPL record of 105 runs in the first six overs of KKR’s chase of 159 which they ultimately won by six wickets with more than 25 balls in hand. Lynn, returning from a shoulder injury, was his destructive self as well, hammering a 21-ball 50.
“Lynny just said, keep your eyes on the ball, maintain your focus and swing through the line. I try to keep it simple and back my ability,” said the Trinidadian player.
Narine was also happy with his bowling in the match, in particular, the wicket of danger man AB de Villiers.
“That wicket was key (AB de Villiers) and pulled them back a bit so I’m happy. It was a total team effort. Bowlers stuck to their plans. Umesh’s (Yadav) was a key performance too.”