(Image source from: myKhel)

The win of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Sunday’s Indian Premier League (IPL) match was quite unexpected for many and Parthiv Patel, who hit the stumps to effect a run-out and clinch a thrilling one-run win for the team, became the talk of the town.

Parthiv, when asked about what was running through his mind during the last ball, he said: "When a batsman is 80 not out from 40 balls, you expect him to put the bat on the ball. But luckily, Umesh (Yadav) executed that slow one really well. I was prepared to throw it and had even given away my one glove, and luckily, I could execute that under pressure. If a batsman is hitting like how Dhoni was, you generally don’t miss a shot, but I’m glad he missed it in the end. It was one of those days that was made for me.”

Parthiv also managed to secure man-of-the-match award after scoring a crucial 53 runs in the game.

"I will try and do the same things I’ve been doing as we’ve done well in the last few games. Nothing changes. I will try and get into the other matches with the same mindset," he said.

Parthiv’s good form in the IPL comes amid a difficult time in his personal life. His father Ajay Patel suffered a brain hemorrhage and was admitted to the hospital two months ago. Parthiv missed the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy to stay by his father’s side and is now playing in the IPL after being encouraged by his family.

“I just try and make sure that I’m well prepared and don’t have to worry about results in the game - this is something that I’ve done year after year. I just ensure that whatever process I’m going through gives me the required results,” he added.

He further credited captain Virat Kohli for bringing out the best in everyone in the team. “I’ve played with him for India and now with RCB - he pushes everyone beyond limits. He’s someone who sets an example for others in terms of training and how he prepares for the game and everyone else follows,” Parthiv said.

He also thanked RCB fans who have patiently supported the team through the ups and downs of this year's IPL. “We haven’t won the IPL so far, but they continue to support us. Hats off to the way they come in and root for us. I hope we are able to do it this year. If not, there’s always the next year.”

By Sowmya Sangam