Keshav Maharaj demanded a bat as a “gift” from his teammate Shimron Hetmyer after the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match between PBKS and RR. Both Maharaj and Hetmyer were two of the best performers in Rajasthan’s clash against Punjab, which saw the latter score an unbeaten 27(10) and the former finish with impressive bowling figures of 2/23. The exciting fixture also saw Maharaj bag his first two IPL wickets after removing dangerous PBKS batters – Jonny Bairstow and acting captain Sam Curran.
Hetmyer’s winning knock brought RR back on track, after the side’s unbeaten streak in IPL 2024 ended with a last-ball defeat to GT on April 8. His explosive batting performance also saw him bag the Player of the Match award, adding further highlight to his reputation as one of the most dangerous batters in the current setup of IPL. Apart from Hetmyer’s innings, Maharaj’s spell also played a crucial role in RR’s victory, which saw the South African bag some early wickets and help his side restrict PBKS to a mere total of 147.
IPL 2024, PBKS vs RR: Match Report
In a recent video uploaded by the IPL, both Maharaj and Hetmyer engaged in a fun conversation where the former demanded a bat from his teammate, while praising his prowess as a T20 batter.
“You are one of the best in the T20 format and I love feeding off your energy, you’re a positive guy and I hope the friendship continues. Still waiting for my bat though,” Maharaj told Hetmyer.
“Yeah yeah you’ll get the bat, no worries. I’ll get the bat for you,” Hetmyer replied.
Maharaj went on to reflect on his experience of bagging his first two IPL wickets, and also shared a few insights on how he has planned his approach for RR in IPL 2024.
“It has been amazing. I’m very grateful to be here, I’m here to learn. Very fortunate enough to put in a good performance to help the team, restrict the opposition to a low total. It is really good to get into the wickets column but I just try to keep my job simple, hit the area and make it uncomfortable for the batters. Also, some good catching by you (Hetmyer) and Dhruv Jurel on the boundary there. But it has been really nice to take wickets and contribute to the team,“ Maharaj added.
IPL 2024 Full Coverage | IPL 2024 Points Table and Standings | 2024 IPL Full Schedule
RR will look to continue further on this winning momentum, specifically in their upcoming clash against an in-form KKR on April 16, which will see both sides race for the top spot in the IPL 2024 table.