Love playing in these situations: Russell

A late Andre Russell show at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur yesterday saw his team Rajshahi Royals make their way to the Bangabandhu Bangladesh Premier League (BBPL) final after a two-wicket victory over Chattogram Challengers during the tournament's second qualifier.

When skipper Russell walked in, Rajshahi were struggling at 80 for four -- still needing 85 runs off 40 deliveries -- while in chase of Chattogram's 164 for nine. However, what has transpired after, had left the Chattogram crew stunned and much like the spectators, all they could do was stand and admire the Russell-show. 

Russell smashed an unbeaten 22-ball 54, laced with two fours and seven sixes. The carnage was however nothing new to the world as the West Indian has won games for his team single-handedly many times in past. The all-rounder mentioned that he loves batting in such crunch situations.

"I love playing in these situations when you require 12, 13 or even sometimes I love when it is like 15 or 16 runs required per over. I love challenges like this," said Russell at the post-match press conference.

Russell, who was very calm and collected during the press conference, just like he was on the field, said that the key to playing such an innings is not to rush and try not to play any premeditated shots. 

"I know I am strong. I always have an open mind-set and I don't plan and I do not premeditate. That is one of the thing for which I was upset with one of our batter. He advanced down the wicket but all you need to do at the death is stay still as the bowler is already under pressure. As long as you stay still, you give yourself a chance. My mindset going into bat is always just to be free. I know, once I stay till the last two or three overs, I can work it out from there." Russell concluded.