Rajasthan Royals will get back to winning ways: Faulkner

Pune, April 12 (IANS): Rajasthan Royals all-rounder James Faulkner has expressed confidence that the 2008 Indian Premier League (IPL) champions will bounce back strongly after the defeat they suffered here Thursday night against Pune Warriors.

Making his debut for Rajasthan Royals, the Tasmanian all-rounder made 19 and then returned to claim two wickets for 17 runs in his four overs.

“Personally, yeah it was a reasonably good game. But we lost a game of cricket, so it all counts for nothing. We hope to get back in the next game, and hopefully, get back on a winning streak,” said Faulkner after the match.

Faulkner said it was the initial flurry by Robin Uthappa and Aaron Finch that took away the match from Rajasthan.

“The first six overs were really crucial for us today. We had done really well so far in the first two games. But in this game, it didn’t go to plan. It happens, and we will move on quickly,” said Faulkner.

Faulkner was all praise for Finch, who also made his first appearance for Pune Warriors.

“Aaron Finch was great. It was his first game this season and he batted unbelievably well. Credit to him for doing that,” said Faulkner.

Faulkner was glad to play under former India skipper Rahul Dravid for Rajasthan.

“Definitely, he’s one of the greats of world cricket and also Indian cricket. It’s a pleasure to play alongside him, and hopefully the next time we get a win together,” said Faulkner.