IPL 2024: Eric Simons Pleased with Pathirana’s Accuracy, Considers Wickets a Bonus
Mumbai, April 15 (IANS) – Chennai Super Kings’ bowling consultant, Eric Simons, commended Matheesha Pathirana for his exceptional performance in the team’s 20-run victory over Mumbai Indians. Pathirana’s accuracy and crucial wickets proved to be instrumental in CSK’s win at the Wankhede Stadium.
Pathirana’s spell of 4-28 included key dismissals of Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, and Romario Shepherd, disrupting MI’s chase. Simons praised Pathirana’s accuracy, stating, “The wickets are a bonus, but his accuracy was really good. Sometimes you’ll bowl accurately but not get wickets. Here, he was accurate and got wickets.”
With eight points from six games, CSK currently holds the third spot in the IPL points table. Their next challenge is a match against Lucknow Super Giants on April 19. Simons highlighted how Pathirana honed his accuracy in CSK practice sessions, focusing on hitting targets and allowing the bowler to develop his unique technique.
Simons also lauded Shardul Thakur and Tushar Deshpande for their contributions in the match, with Thakur’s exceptional final over and Deshpande’s crucial dismissal of Hardik Pandya. Simons emphasized the importance of clear tactics and understanding for bowlers, praising Deshpande’s intelligence and strategic thinking in crucial moments.
“The unsung heroes of the game were Tushar and Shardul. Shardul bowled one of the best overs I have ever seen,” said Simons. He acknowledged that while Pathirana deserved praise for his performance, Thakur and Deshpande played pivotal roles in pushing the game out of MI’s reach. Simons emphasized the significance of bowlers having a clear understanding of tactics and the reasons behind them for success in games.
Overall, Simons’ strategic guidance and the players’ exceptional performances led CSK to a significant victory over MI, setting the stage for an exciting clash against Lucknow Super Giants in the upcoming match.
