In their final league-stage match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 on Friday night, the Rajasthan Royals maintained their chances of making the playoffs by narrowly defeating the Punjab Kings. The Royals finished their league phase with seven victories in 14 games, with a four-wicket win in Dharamsala, and will now rely on successful outcomes in upcoming matches to qualify for the playoffs.
Devdutt Padikkal (51) led the Royals in scoring in the 187-run chase, although Shimron Hetmyer proved crucial to the innings in the final few overs. Before Dhruv Jurel (10*) hit a six to end the game for RR, the West Indies hitter smashed a quickfire 46 from 28 balls to get the team close to the mark.
PBKS are out of the IPL 2023 following their loss against RR
During the 17th over of the RR chase, Hetmyer batted with great intensity and engaged in an equally furious brawl with Punjab Kings star Sam Curran before being declared caught behind. The RR batter immediately indicated for a review, and Curran and Hetmyer argued as Curran passed them.
After the verdict was ultimately reversed and Hetmyer lived, the two continued their verbal exchange, which caused the audience to erupt. There was still more fighting. Hetmyer hit Curran for a four on the opening ball of Curran's fourth over, maintaining the pose as he travelled the length of the crease and circled Curran. The commentators did not miss the occurrence and laughed as the replay was broadcast.
Curran dismissed Hetmyer in the same round; thus, he got the last word in the conflict. Hetmyer attempted a similar shot at cover but was unsuccessful because Shikhar Dhawan held the position, and the Punjab Kings skipper made an outstanding catch to end the RR star's run. Despite this, the English pacer was costly in the match, giving up 46 runs in his four overs while taking a wicket.
Later in the post-match presentation ceremony, Shimron Hetmyer was asked what exactly Sam Curran said to him during their verbal brawl. However, Hetmyer exhibited exceptional sportsmanship deciding not to discuss the incident anymore. He was asked, "What did Sam Curran say to you?" "That I can't disclose," he said with a big smile.
Here's how fans reacted:
True Sportsmen 🤝 what's on the field remains on the field
— Mayank Kushwaha (@mayankushwaha) May 19, 2023
Sam Curran said that Riyan Parag is a better finisher than you.
— Rahul Sharma (@CricFnatic) May 19, 2023
Sam Curran to him : Last game hai mera I'm going see you soon 😂🙌
— shubham upadhyay (@CricShubh8) May 19, 2023
It proves that hetmeyer is a matured
— Black_Panther (@BlackPa84406749) May 20, 2023
Welbehaving cricketer than most of the indian players
Ladki hoti to I can't disclose ke baad tweet krke bata deti
— Hit (@SuperHit07) May 19, 2023
Bole jo koyal ...
— Ro Verse (@vintage_hitman) May 19, 2023
Makes me remember of Drone Pratap🤣
— {☆$ùññý_šŔŔŔh}ᴹᵃˢˢRC (@SrrrH_Fans) May 19, 2023
Made boring match entertaining 😂
— Shubman Gang (@ShubmanGang) May 19, 2023