Andre Russell has been a tormentor for us: Sanjay Bangar

Kolkata, May 9 (IANS)

Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) head coach Sanjay Bangar on Saturday said Kolkata Knight Riders' all-rounder Andre Russell has tormented his side this season. Chasing Kings XI's 183/5, the hosts went over the line with a ball and a wicket to spare as Russell blasted 51 in just 21 balls.

In the reverse fixture, the West Indian had played a similar match-winning knock of 66 in Pune, the adopted home ground of the Kings.

Asked when did the game get out of hand for the visitors as at one stage KKR were struggling at 83/4, Bangar said: "The way Andre Russell batted (made the difference). He has been our tormentor this season even in the previous game, he came out and played a blinder.

"On both occasion's we have had KKR in a tight spot, but all credit to him for coming out and then taking the game away from us," he added at the post-match press conference.

Bangar happy with the Kings’ performance

However, the coach insisted the morale of his side is holding strong and they would want to finish the tournament on a high.

"I do not think the motivation levels are low. The boys came out and batted extremely well on a difficult wicket. Not many teams come to Kolkata and score as many as 183 runs at the Eden Gardens against a quality attack. So I think the way the boys turned up today was fabulous.

"It was a great game today and I hope the fans will be delighted at the fight we have shown today," he said.