After losing six wickets in just 13 overs, the Knight Riders desperately needed a counter-attack from their lower order. Andre Russell, in great form, took on the challenge.
The KKR star aggressively attacked the DC bowlers, scoring 41 runs at a striking rate of over 250. However, his quick and effective assault was cut short when Dushmantha Chameera tricked him into playing a false stroke, leaving the Caribbean star disappointed.
In the 18th over, Chameera delivered a back-of-a-length ball wide outside the off-stump. Recognizing that Russell often cleared his front foot for big hits, the plan worked for the Lankan speedster.
Russell, attempting to reach the delivery, ended up with a top-edge due to the intended slash. The Kookaburra flew off the thickish edge of the bat, and Scott Kuggeleijn took an easy catch at backward point, leaving Russell disheartened.
Witnessing Russell’s explosive display of three fours and as many sixes conclude in such a subdued manner, he fell to the ground along the crease, bowing down in despondency.
— Glennmax (@maxglenn425) February 3, 2024
It was evident that the 35-year-old realized he had missed an opportunity to guide his side beyond 200 runs, as the Knight Riders could only manage 20 runs in the next 16 deliveries. The Twitterverse showed empathy for the Windies star, offering support in response to his disappointment.