IPL 2013: Jaydev Unadkat showed courage and guts, says AB de Villiers
Defending 19 in the last over, Jaydev Unadkat kept his nerve as Royal Challengers Bangalore earned a thrilling victory over hosts Delhi Daredevils to keep their IPL play-offs bid on track.
- NDTVSports
- Updated: May 11, 2013 12:27 AM IST
In a high-scoring encounter at the Feroz Shah Kotla on Friday, Royal Challengers Bangalore beat the Delhi Daredevils by 4 runs. Jaydev Unadkat starred with the ball for Bangalore - picking up 5 for 25 - and bowling the crucial last over of the match as well.
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RCB talisman AB de Villiers was all praise for the young Indian left-arm seamer. "We are very proud of Jaydev today. He showed courage and guts to bowl a great last over and take us to victory," said De Villiers after the match.
De Villiers also shone with the bat as he struck a 17-ball unbeaten 32 and was involved in a partnership of 94 with Virat Kohli as Bangalore amassed 183/4 in their 20 overs. "The partnership between Virat and me was important to the final outcome of the match. I scored quickly and that allowed Virat to free his arms as well," added De Villiers.
Kohli fell one run short of his maiden IPL century but De Villiers had nothing but kind words for his skipper. "Virat is taking great strides as captain. It was an excellent innings by him that which showcased his clean hitting."
De Villiers has built a reputation as an unorthodox stroke-maker in this format of the game and showcased his talents on Friday in Delhi. "I can't hit the ball like Chris Gayle so I have to outsmart the bowlers," said De Villiers with a laugh. "I don't practice the unusual shots and I'm glad it's working out for me."
Unadkat picked up the Man of the Match award for his excellent showing with the ball. "It was one of my best days as a bowler," said Unadkat after collecting the award. "I have been working hard on my bowling and have increased my pace as well.
"I have matured over the past couple of years as well, having played full seasons of domestic cricket. My functional strength has improved and I would like to increase my pace even further," added the 21-year-old.