Suyash Sharma delivered a match-winning performance for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in their comprehensive Qualifier 1 victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS) in New Chandigarh, crediting his success to clear game plans. The leg-spinner’s spell of 3 for 17 from three overs was his best in the IPL.

Coming into the attack with PBKS struggling at 59 for 5, Suyash immediately stifled any hopes of a revival. In his very first over, he bowled Shashank Singh with a googly, catching him attempting a heave to the leg side. This dismissal prompted PBKS to introduce Musheer Khan as an Impact Player, but Musheer’s IPL debut lasted only three balls as Suyash trapped him lbw with another deceptive googly. In his subsequent over, Marcus Stoinis was also bowled while attempting a slog sweep, once again falling victim to the googly.

Simplicity is Key: “Hit the Stumps”

Named Player of the Match, Suyash revealed the simple instruction from his coaches: “The coaches have told me just one thing: I have to hit the stumps, it doesn’t matter whether I bowl a googly, legbreak, or flipper. So I try to finish as many balls as possible on the stumps.” He also noted that the pitch offered some assistance, making his googly particularly difficult for batsmen to pick.

RCB captain Rajat Patidar echoed this sentiment, praising Suyash’s consistent line and length. “The way Suyash chipped in, the way he bowled his line and length, that was incredible,” Patidar stated. He emphasized his clear instructions to Suyash: “He has to be, most of the time, on the stumps. That’s his strength. And his wrong’un is very difficult to pick for batsmen. So I always give him clear ideas. I don’t want to confuse him. And I’m okay if he gives some runs.”

Suyash’s impactful bowling helped restrict PBKS to just 101 all out, setting up a comfortable win for RCB.