It was a clinical performance all around that helped Punjab Kings get one over champions Mumbai Indians last night at the Chepauk Stadium, as KL Rahul’s side claimed a comfortable nine-wicket win to climb up a few places in the 2021 VIVO Indian Premier League.

“I think we are slowly coming together as a team. We are still a young team, and every year we keep bringing in new guys, so it is important as a team, the support staff and the franchise stay a little patient,” said Punjab Kings skipper KL Rahul in the post-match interview.

“And they have been patient and I think we are seeing those results now. The guys we have backed and given opportunities to are slowly coming through. Hooda (Deepak) and Shahrukh (Khan) have got their opportunities and are playing really well,” added the 29-year-old.

KL Rahul reserved special praise for youngster Ravi Bishnoi too, who played his first IPL game of 2021 on Friday, and delivered an economical spell straightway. “Bishnoi came in only this game but the way he bowled was just brilliant.

“He held his composure and bowled really well against a solid batting attack. I’m sure this will give him a lot of confidence going forward,” said Rahul.

Bishnoi too was happy with the support the team and the management had given him, revealing that to be one of the reasons behind his good performance right from the get go.

“The team management had assured me that I would get my chance, I just had to wait for it. Till then they told me to keep working on my game and improving my consistency, so I did that,” explained Ravi Bishnoi in the post-match press conference.

“It feels good to have the support of the captain and the team management. Happy that I could deliver in difficult situations today to repay that faith.”