Pat Cummins' statement: 'We don't play in fear...', says captain Pat Cummins after defeating PBKS

The Punjab Kings, who had previously struck a "winning six" in the 19th season of the IPL, have now suffered a "hat-trick of defeats." In the 49th match of the current season, Sunrisers Hyderabad defeated Punjab Kings by 33 runs. With this victory, the Hyderabad team secured their seventh win of the tournament and climbed to the top spot on the points table. After winning the toss, the Punjab team elected to bowl first—a decision that ultimately proved to be a mistake.

Batting first, the SRH team posted a formidable total of 235 runs; in response, the PBKS batting unit failed to perform up to expectations. During the chase, Cooper Connolly played a standout innings for the team, scoring a high of 107 runs. However, despite this impressive knock, the team could only manage to reach 202 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their allotted 20 overs, allowing Hyderabad to clinch the match by 33 runs.

Captain Pat Cummins was named the 'Player of the Match' following the game. He took several spectacular catches and delivered a brilliant bowling performance for the team, claiming two wickets in the process. Upon receiving the Player of the Match award, he heaped praise on Cooper Connolly.

What did Pat Cummins say after winning the match?

During the post-match presentation—following their victory over Punjab Kings—SRH captain Pat Cummins was asked what he considered to be the most gratifying aspect of the match.

He replied, "There were several highlights. I believe Punjab is an excellent team; prior to this match, they were sitting at the number one spot. I felt that the total our batsmen put on the board was magnificent. Furthermore, the way we closed out the match—regardless of the specific score—was impressive. Bowling in the second innings against a team like this is always a challenging task, but I felt we executed our game plan with great discipline and precision." Subsequently, when asked about the secret behind their success while batting first, he replied:

"I feel that we are quite good at playing at our own pace. We don't try to start in a conservative manner; that really isn't Abhishek's or Travis's style. So, our objective is simply to amass as many runs as possible; we don't focus on reaching a specific total. And then, later in the innings—if the situation changes—we are quite adept at adapting."

Leveraging the Home Advantage in Evening Matches?

Pat Cummins noted that they haven't been quite as effective in day matches. "We have played some excellent cricket here over the last few years. I feel that this venue suits our style of play. Even tonight, the ball was gripping a little, which ultimately proves beneficial for several of our bowlers. We feel that regardless of how the pitch behaves midway through the game, we have encountered such conditions before and are capable of adjusting."

When asked why they struggle in day matches, he laughed and remarked that Travis is usually asleep at that time—at least when his children aren't around—so perhaps that is the reason.

What Did Cummins Say About His Bowling?

SRH captain Pat Cummins commented on his bowling performance:

"Yes, I am pleased with my bowling. I still don't quite understand how I ended up receiving this award (Player of the Match), but it feels great. I came into this match feeling fresh, and my preparations were solid. The Powerplay hasn't really worked out for any team lately, so today we tried to be a bit more proactive. We had our plans, but limited options, so I decided to try bowling a few bouncers—and fortunately, they paid off tonight."

Heartfelt Praise for Cooper Connolly

Cummins expressed his delight, noting that it was a positive outcome. He added that it always feels good to see Australian players performing well. Speaking about Cooper Connolly, he remarked that he has been a standout performer with the bat for them this season. Although he isn't bowling at the moment, he is nevertheless demonstrating his value as a batsman. It is a great time for Australian cricket.

Could this be SRH's season?

Pat Cummins stated that he is hopeful; with some time still remaining in the tournament, they intend to savor their time at the number one spot for now. There is still a bit of a journey ahead, but aside from being at number one, there is nowhere else he would rather be—and he is happy.