New Delhi: Andre Russell plays an integral part in the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) set up and senior wicketkeeper batsman Robin Uthappa made no bones about the fact that Russell firing helps the cause of the team.
Speaking to the media on the eve of KKR’s showdown against Delhi Capitals, Uthappa said the Caribbean all-rounder enjoys his role in the team.
“Russell plays an important role. We understand the impact he has for the team to go from 180 to 200. It is important for him to have freedom. He looks at himself as a senior statesman in the team. He understands the role,” the India discard said.
Uthappa had himself played a quality knock in the game against Kings XI Punjab, but it was all about the Russell show and the batsman doesn’t mind serving the team.
“It is sometimes a double-edged sword. Sometimes you can play a knock like I played the last day and it can fly under the radar, but it was important for the team. It’s important to hold that position. I love serving the team,” he added.
This will be KKR’s first away game and the batsman said it is important to start well as they have four away games on the trot. “First away game… This is important as we need to start well. Winning is important in away games. DC have always been a tough opponent at their home,” Uthappa said.
While there have been a lot of talks about the wickets being prepared for the IPL, Uthappa said the T20 format is meant for the batsmen.
“It is not conducive for the viewership. But you want it to be evenly balanced. Slow wickets are fine, but rank turners are not conducive for T20 games. It is a batsman’s game and viewers want to watch that,” he said.