Shamar Joseph has lauded his West Indies compatriot Romario Shepherd for his sensational innings for MI against DC. Shepherd’s rapid 39 off just 10 balls guided MI to a convincing 29-run victory over DC at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
The powerful knock from Shepherd helped newly-appointed captain Hardik Pandya secure his first win as MI skipper after a rocky start to the season. Posting 234 for 5 in the first innings, MI’s bowlers then restricted DC to 205 for 8.
In a video shared on IPL’s social media platform ‘X’, Joseph expressed his admiration for Shepherd’s support and highlighted his ability to hit the ball a long way. Shepherd’s explosive innings made history with the highest strike rate ever recorded in an IPL match (minimum 10 balls), hitting three fours and four sixes in his rapid 39-run knock in Mumbai. buoyed by Shepherd’s blistering performance, MI achieved their third-highest total in the history of the Indian Premier League.
“We actually come from one area coming into cricket, getting to know him and being around him, he’s such a good fellow,” Joseph remarked. “Always gives you advice on how to go about your games and keep training hard and always just continue doing what you do best.” reiterated Joseph.
“Congratulations to Romario Shepherd. He’s an exceptional player and can hit the ball a long way. Let’s keep up the good work and savor every moment,” Joseph added.
Shepherd stepped up to bat after Pandya’s dismissal in the 18th over, and his explosive 39 off just 10 balls, including three boundaries and four maximums, including a 32-run over against South Africa’s Anrich Nortje.
Despite conceding 54 runs in his four overs with the ball, Shepherd managed to dismiss the dangerous David Warner, earning the ‘Player of the Match’ award for his all-round performance.
Following this victory, MI climbed above DC and RCB to eighth place in the league standings by securing their first points of the season.
Looking ahead after their triumph over DC, the five-time IPL champions will focus on their upcoming clash against RCB at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday, April 11.