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Gujarat Titans started off their IPL campaign with a defeat as they lost to Punjab Kings in New Chandigarh. Punjab Kings survived a scare to defeat the Gujarat Titans by 3 wickets. The Shreyas Iyer-led team were crusing at the halfway mark before losing four wickets in 3 overs. However, debutant Cooper Connolly scored an unbeaten 72 to guide the hosts home.
Speaking after the match, Shubman Gill said that GT`s batting let them down. The Indian skipper also said that his team lost a few too many wickets to his liking and could not put on a big total on the board.
“It looked like a 210-220 wicket. We thought 175 would be a good score, but we kept losing wickets and didn`t score much in the last 5 overs. Once the ball got older, it was difficult to hit it down the ground. In the second innings, rain continued, making the ball wet, which slightly improved batting conditions. So I don`t think it stopped as much in the second innings. But nonetheless, I think we did a decent job.” Shubman Gill said.
When asked about his message to his players after the match, Gill said he wants his team to remain positive. Gill further added that he liked the intensity from his team and hoped to see it continue.
“Hard luck, and it wasn`t the game for us, but I think we did decently well. It`s just, you know, keep getting better and keep adding more intensity and keep giving your best,” he added.
Shreyas Iyer reacts to PBKS` victory
PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer was delighted with his team`s victory. Iyer praised Copper for his match-winning performance as he single-handedly guided his team to a victory. He further urged his team to continue their good form into the next match.
“Cooper has got a great mindset and hope he continues his form. After the 3rd over, we realised the wicket is playing slow. We tried to make the ball old as quickly as possible. (On Vyshak) He is carrying forward the form that he performed in the final last year. He`s a big match player. We need to carry this momentum going forward.” Shreyas Iyer said.
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