IPL 7: Gautam Gambhir calls on batsmen to finish games consistently

New Delhi: After getting a lifeline in the tournament with their convincing win over Delhi Daredevils, Kolkata Knight Riders captain Gautam Gambhir emphasised the need for his batsmen to finish the games consistently.

KKR snapped their four-match losing streak with a comfortable eight-wicket win over the hosts today. Gambhir said it was relieving to win after their heartbreaking loss against Rajasthan Royals on Monday when they lost after being 121 for no loss in their chase of 170.

Kolkata Knight Riders captain Gautam Gambhir

"Especially after the last match, we really wanted to finish this game. We played well and held our nerves," said Gambhir, who guided his team to an eight wicket win by scoring a second successive half century. His 106-run with Robin Uthappa (47) at the top made the job easy for the Knight Riders.

"We wanted someone to bat through and luckily it was me today. Runs on the board always benefit, but this was a good wicket and the ball was coming on nicely. Robin (Uthappa) and I got the start and we were smart enough to do the job this time."

Looking ahead, Gambhir said: "We have a lot of talent in the team and we need to finish more games." On finding form after enduring three consecutive ducks at the start of the tournament, the southpaw added: "The way I started the tournament, I couldn't get a run. I was smiling from outside but deep down I was anxious. Things can turn around quickly in this format."