Wet conditions hampered bowlers, says de Villiers

Titans' batsman AB de Villiers praised the side's bowlers for their efforts against Chennai Super Kings on Sunday but said that the dew-affected outfield made it difficult to control run-scoring and also resulted in some erratic bowling from the South African side.

De Villiers had blasted a 36-ball 77 to help Titans reach 185 for 5 before Michael Hussey, Suresh Raina and Dwayne Bravo set up a good chase for Super Kings, ensuring a four-wicket victory in the 19th over.

"The field was quite wet and so the ball got wet very early on, which meant it skidded on and made it easier for the batsmen. Our bowlers tried everything they could - all the variations - but nothing worked," de Villiers told the CLT20 website.

According to de Villiers, the damp conditions also affected the Titans bowlers as they conceded 24 runs in wides: "The guys tried to bowl with a very attacking mindset - a straight line, trying to get them out - but the wet ball made it very difficult."

On his knock, de Villiers said that he fed off the crowd's enthusiasm to finish with an innings that included three fours and seven sixes at a strike rate of 213.88.

"The Indian crowds are very loud and it's nice to give them some entertainment and something to cheer about," de Villiers said. "These big crowds really get me going as well. I love playing in Ranchi; I was here during the IPL and had a great experience. I look forward to coming here again."