New Delhi: After youngsters Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson guided Delhi Daredevils to a stroke-filled victory over Gujarat Lions in the Indian Premier League (IPL), coach Rahul Dravid jokingly said that he is glad that they have not seen too many videos of him batting.
"I am glad that you have not been watching too many videos of me batting when you need 208 in 20 overs (joking that they were not influenced by his style of batting in their growing up days). Well done boys, terrific innings," Dravid told the duo in an interview with iplt20.com. (DD vs GL - As it happened | Points Table)
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Samson, who although came in as an opener alongside Karun Nair, saw Pant smashing bowlers all around the park before taking the same role himself and towering a few big sixes at the Feroz Shah Kotla stadium. Speaking about his change in gear, Samson said that Pant’s encouraging words egged him to take the bowlers head-on.
“Bhaiya jyada socho mat, bas maro (don’t think too much, just hit), I think that really helped me to go on. Enjoyed batting with him,” the opener told Dravid looking back on the run-chase.
The DD coach, later, heaped more praise on Rishabh saying, "What was impressive for me was Rishabh - batting on 97 and not thinking about his 100 at that stage and still going for his shots. (He was) not worrying about the 100 and (was) looking to get the team home. Incredible innings from the two boys and truly well deserved."
Though it was an immensely impressive performance from the duo, Dravid did tell them that he hopes they finish the job next time and bat through innings to remain not out till the very end.
“I am a hard task master (and) I hope that you guys will next time finish the job and stay not out.”
