Pat Cummins still has some unfinished business with the Knight Riders

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) pacer Pat Cummins has commented on how he felt when he was picked up by the franchise this year again. The Aussie bowler professed that he was delighted to be back with the purple and gold outfit as he missed the second leg of the IPL season last year.

Cummins opted to leave the Kolkata squad midway in 2021 in the UAE due to personal reasons. But Kolkata once again purchased him this year for INR 7.25 crore. 

He first joined KKR in 2020 when he was sold for a whopping INR 15.5 crore, making him the most expensive overseas grab at that time. However, Chris Morris broke the record the following year. 

“I was pumped when I got picked by KKR again. It’s my 5th season now. I felt I had unfinished business because I left halfway through last season and missed the second half,”

He opined that it is hard to stick to the plans when there is a major auction. However, he believes playing or the same franchise helps set a long term plan. Cummins also expressed his joy of being back with the familiar faces in the KKR dugout.

“It’s hard in the IPL because you feel like you are building towards something, and then there’s a major auction. So really glad to be back with the same team. Lots of the same players, same staff members, so I was very happy,”

The 29-year-old has already shown his quality this year. He has performed with the ball and has been effective with the bat too. Against Mumbai Indians, Cummins hit a 14 ball 50, which is the joint fastest 50 in IPL history. Also, in his first four matches, the Aussie gave away 190 runs at a disappointing average of 47.5.

Cummins discussed the importance of concentrating on his strengths in his brilliant bowling performances. He also stated that it is wise to maintain variations in your deliveries and execute them flawlessly. 

“You have got to be clear about your plans, and you have to try and find a balance between bowling away from the batter’s strengths and also concentrate on what you’re doing well. If you’re bowling really good yorkers, make sure that’s part of your plan. But I think it’s also about having a couple of options and being confident about trying to execute them. If anything, it’s about not judging yourself too harshly.”

Kolkata will be up against Sunrisers Hyderabad on 14th May 2022 in a must-win encounter for both sides if they wish to remain in the race to playoffs this season.