Kolkata: Rajasthan Royals star wicket keeper batsman Jos Buttler is in prime form as he scored five back to back half-century in this year’s Indian Premier League. Kolkata Knight Riders head coach and legendary South African all-rounder Jacques Kallis knows that very well. The KKR coach today said they have special plans for Buttler and other batsmen as well and he is hopeful that the plans will work for them.
“Wickets have been pretty good, it has given the batters an opportunity to score a lot of runs. He certainly has been consistent and in good form. So we obviously have to make sure we have some good plans against him and the rest of the batters tomorrow. We have some plans for all their batters. hopefully they will work for us to win the game,” Kallis told reporters on the eve of the match here in Kolkata.
Both KKR and the Royals, placed fourth and fifth respectively, are on 12 points from the same number of the matches. KKR have a slightly better net run rate. Kallis feels that their fate is in their own hands as if they play good cricket in next two games, the two-time champions will reach the playoffs easily.
“Destiny is still in our hands. If we play two good games of cricket, we are through to the playoffs and that’s what we are interested in… It’s about taking one game at a time and play well tomorrow. We are not really worried about what the rest of the teams are doing,” added Kallis.
Asked if net run rate is a concern, Kallis said, “Hopefully we won’t worry about run-rate and we get through with two wins… Yes it will be in back of our minds but certainly it won’t be our focus as we go into the game. Winning will be the priority.”
KKR’s NRR is -0.189 but other teams are snapping at their heels.
Kallis was asked how difficult is it to play against teams who are peaking at the right time.
“I think that’s the strength of the IPL. Any team can beat any team, that’s what makes it so exciting.
“There are our few sides who have gained form towards the back end of the tournament which is how you want it. So hopefully we can do the same and continue with our winning streak. Like I said, if we play two good games of cricket, destiny is in our hands.”