IPL 2024: Russell is a phenomenal ball striker, best in the world on his day, says Phil Salt

Making his debut for KKR, Salt, who had played alongside Russell in Manchester Originals in The Hundred, was excited to see another special from the West Indian.

Published : Mar 24, 2024 10:55 IST , Kolkata - 1 MIN READ

Kolkata Knight Riders’ Phil Salt in action.
Kolkata Knight Riders’ Phil Salt in action. | Photo Credit: KR DEEPAK/THE HINDU
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Kolkata Knight Riders’ Phil Salt in action. | Photo Credit: KR DEEPAK/THE HINDU

Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad camps acknowledged Andre Russell’s special performance, which enabled the host to manage a narrow four-run win in the Indian Premier League (IPL) at the Eden Gardens on Saturday.

KKR opener Phil Salt said Russell’s onslaught was nothing new for him. “I’ve played with Dre in The Hundred. He’s a phenomenal ball-striker. The best in the world on his day. To see him do what he did, obviously is incredible. Love watching it, but it’s no surprise to me,” said Salt.

SRH coach Daniel Vettori had similar opinions. “His power is second to none, so you have to challenge yourself to be perfect with the execution.”

KKR vs SRH, IPL 2024: Andre Russell’s all-round performance helps Kolkata Knight Riders edge Sunrisers Hyderabad

Both Salt and Vettori were impressed with Ramandeep Singh, whose cameo on debut put KKR back on track.

“Ramandeep took the pressure off me. He had a hell of a cameo, and we started to form a partnership,” said Salt.

Vettori said Ramandeep set a platform for Russell. “With Salt well set, it allowed him (Ramandeep) to play his game.”

Vettori said that with Heinrich Klaassen in, SRH never lost hope in the chase. Salt praised young pacer Harshit Rana for holding his nerve in the crucial final over and helping KKR defend its total.

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