Pollard, Rayudu the saviours for Mumbai

Involved in match-winning stand against Bangalore.

Chris Gayle got a taste of his own medicine from Kieron Pollard, as the Mumbai Indians sneaked past Royal Challengers Bangalore’s total of 171 with two balls to spare and register a five-wicket win.

Needing 14 off the final over, Gayle saw Pollard smash a six off the second delivery followed by two boundaries as Mumbai posted their ninth win in 14 games. Gayle was plundered for 39 in less than three overs.

It was a miraculous turnaround for a side, which was reduced to 51 for five in the ninth over, and they had Pollard and Ambati Rayudu to credit. Pollard was unbeaten on a 31-ball 52 and Rayudu hit a superb 81 off 54 deliveries to take the team past the finish line.

Their efforts overshadowed that of Mayank Agarwal, who earlier made a whirlwind 64 off 30 balls, to power Bangalore to a competitive total. His innings included six fours and four maximums and propelled Bangalore to a strong total.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 15^th, 2012.