It was finally Russell mania at Eden Gardens. 2 out of 8 balls and the murmurs could be felt in the stands. Russell was fighting for his career and his reputation. Next 14 balls resulted in 49 runs and he had a fifty of 22 balls steering KKR to a competitive total in a do or die clash at Eden Gardens. It was clean hitting of a kind always identified with the burly Jamaican. He was desperately trying to get under the ball and the moment the RR bowlers erred in line, he cashed in. To start with Theekshana was bowled a tad short to him and he was finding it hard. In fact, could have been out a few times as well. But once Parag went to the other bowlers, Russell cut loose and managed to take control.
KKR has a defendable total with three spinners on a wicket that is kind of dry. Varun, Narine and Moeen could surely make this score look more than it is and with Russell shining with the bat, it is expected skipper Rahane will also go to him with the ball for more than an over. KKR needs the Jamaican to step up for they can’t afford a single slip up from here on if they are to make the play offs. The Russell innings has given the Sunday crowd voice at the Eden Gardens. It needs to be seen if the euphoria stays on by the time it evening sets in under lights at the majestic stadium.