Samson: 'Mindset can change for few moments when you think the job is done'

After the dramatic defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad in Jaipur, Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson said that the nature of the IPL means that any team can conjure up a result even out of difficult circumstances, but admitted it hurt to bowl no-balls at crucial moments, like the last ball of the match.

Sandeep Sharma had 16 to defend off the final over, and when he had Abdul Samad caught at long-off off the final delivery the Royals players had started their celebrations. But it was premature as the no-ball siren went off and they had to go through the process once more, except Samad had the benefit of facing a free hit. With four runs now needed, Samad drilled Sandeep back over his head to seal victory for Sunrisers.

"To be very honest, we all know that that's what IPL gives you. Matches like these, that's what makes IPL so special. You can never never never feel like you've won the game," Samson told the broadcaster after the game.

"I was very confident with Sandeep. He has won us a game with almost a similar situation. He did it again today but that no-ball actually ruined our result," he said.

"It's a no-ball, you have to bowl it again, as simple as that. You don't think about it too much," Samson said when quizzed about how he reacted to having to regroup his troops. "And I think Sandeep knows what to do. But definitely in the mindset there might be a small change for few seconds when you think the job is done. Almost everyone was celebrating.

"But that's the nature of the game. You can't step the line at that time in the game."

Samad, the beneficiary of the no-ball, was quick to admit that he was fortunate as he finished unbeaten on 17 off seven.

"I was just waiting for the ball to get in the slot eventually and luckily I got a no-ball as well. I got lucky today," Samad said. "When I crossed the crease the umpire signalled no-ball, so I told Marco [Jansen] to come back. Umpire told us only one run will be given. I was waiting for the ball to hit in the right area. That's it, it went there, I went for it and it worked out."

Sunrisers captain Markram was "super grateful and relieved" with the close win and he heaped praise on Samad.

"Emotions turned quite quickly there, but nice for us to get over the line. Another close game," Markram said at the post-game presentation ceremony.

"Means a lot to the guys, someone like Samad who works hard and only really bats when he is expected to sort of get 15 from an over. It's never easy," Markram said.