The Indian Premier League (IPL) is one of the most thrilling cricket tournaments in the world, and the recent match between Gujarat Titans (GT) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) was no exception. This was a crucial encounter between two of the top teams in the tournament, and both sides were determined to come out on top. The match was a repeat of the previous year’s final, adding to the excitement.
As the second innings began, GT were in a commanding position having taken the wickets of both RR openers. It was at this point that Hardik Pandya, the captain of GT, decided to try and unsettle his opposite number, Sanju Samson. While Mohammed Shami was returning to his bowling mark during the powerplay, Hardik whispered a few words in Samson’s ears. Although Samson did not appreciate this, he chose to respond with the bat later in the match.
https://twitter.com/cricbaaz21/status/1647649249117753344
The Royals had a tough time during the game, losing four wickets for just 66 runs in a chase of 178. They needed a special partnership to stay in the game, and Shimron Hetmyer and skipper Samson himself stepped up to the challenge. As the required run rate began to climb, Samson took matters into his own hands and hit three back-to-back sixes in Rashid Khan’s over, giving the Royals a much-needed boost.
Attack MODE 🔛! @IamSanjuSamson took on Rashid Khan & how 👌 👌
Watch those 3⃣ SIXES 💪 🔽 #TATAIPL | #GTvRR | @rajasthanroyals
Follow the match 👉 https://t.co/nvoo5Sl96y pic.twitter.com/0gG3NrNJ9z
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 16, 2023
Both Samson and Hetmyer continued to play aggressively, bringing the required run rate down to 11 from 14. Samson played an exceptional knock scoring 60 runs off just 32 balls before eventually getting out. However, Hetmyer kept his cool and remained unbeaten on 56 off 26, helping the Royals secure a thrilling victory with four balls to spare.
Action speaks louder than voice
Hardik Pandya tried to sledge Sanju Samson and rest is history 💪. Rajasthan Royals won the match with 4 balls to spare and table toppers 🔥. Never mess with #SanjuSamson#RRvsGT #GTvRR pic.twitter.com/DOfTNqUmD6— Roshmi 🏏 (@cric_roshmi) April 16, 2023