Ferguson brilliant in IPL
New Zealand speedster Lockie Ferguson starred in Rising Pune’s 61-run win against Royal Challengers Bangalore yesterday.
In just his second game for the Stephen Fleming coached IPL side, Ferguson snared 2-7 from his four overs – the thirdequal most economical figures from a four-over spell in competition history.
Ferguson, who was snapped up by the Supergiants for NZ$104,000 in February, also bowled the most dot balls (18) in an innings this season.
He was chucked the ball with Indian ace Virat Kohli and South African master blaster AB de Villiers at the crease, but it didn’t appear to faze him.
The Aucklander promptly had de Villiers caught at short cover, before he dismissed Stuart Binny after he top-edged a sharp bouncer.
His spell doomed Bangalore in their pursuit of 158, as they eventually stumbled through to 96-9 from their allotted overs.
Ferguson’s performance was a stark contrast to his IPL debut a fortnight ago, when he conceded 44 runs from his four overs against the Gujarat Lions.
‘‘Magnificent effort, three overs of dot balls,’’ Rising Pune and Australian captain Steve Smith said of Ferguson after the win.
‘‘Bowled a great pace, hit good lengths, bowled an excellent bouncer, as well. Exciting player for the future.’’
Earlier, Kiwi and Bangalore quick Adam Milne finished with figures of 0-35 from four overs as Rising Pune scored 157-3 batting first.
Smith top-scored with 45, while Manoj Tiwary chipped in with 44 not out.