IPL 2021: Kumar Sangakkara explains why RR skipper denied the single to Morris

RR director of cricket Kumar Sangakkara explained Samson's decision to deny Chris Morris the strike in the last ball of the match. Sanju Samson & Co. surprised many as they produced a sparkling effort chasing the target of 222 runs against Punjab Kings. However, the game did turn out in their favor. Samson, needing five runs from 2 balls, denied his non-striking partner Chris Morris a single on the last ball of the match. Addressing the post-match press conference, Kumar Sangakkara disclosed that Sanju Samson backed his strengths to hit the last ball for a six. The former legendary batsman even expressed his satisfaction with the decision, saying it was promising to see Sanju Samson take the onus upon himself.

South African all-rounder Chris Morris had not looked in the finest of touches with the bat till. He had only faced four deliveries, scoring two runs. Chris Morris remains the costliest player to have been purchased in the auction (INR 16.5 crore). However, his first match in the RR outfit hadn't gone as per plan yet. 

I want Samson to keep things pretty relaxed and focus on each ball: Kumar Sangakkara

Facing Arshdeep, Samson smashed the second last ball towards the extra-cover region, but the shot only guaranteed a single. Morris ran towards Sanju Samson was but sent back after crossing the halfway line. The Proteas all-rounder didn't look pleased, and there were a few confused faces in the Rajasthan dressing room too. Sangakkara, however, felt that Sanju Samson's decision was right even though it didn't produce the desired result. 

The Former wicket-keeper batsman stated that Sanju Samson has often lacked the consistency to build on knocks like these. Kumara Sangakkara also accepted that this was an issue in his game, but he commented that consistency would come with understanding the variations of each game and starting fresh against every ball he faces. Kumar Sangakkara concluded the discussion by showing confidence in Sanju Samson's technique and execution. The veteran also advised Samson to be relaxed and focused in the forthcoming game.

There was also a small debate in the commentary box during the match. Former New Zealand batsman Simon Doull couldn't understand why Sanju Samson had denied Morris a single. On the other hand, veteran Indian batsman Sunil Gavaskar felt that Morris hadn't done enough for Samson to have confidence in him. Rajasthan Royals will now play against Delhi Capitals on April 15 in Mumbai.

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