IPL 2021: 'Ponting has helped me in terms of positivity,' says Shimron Hetmyer

Hetmyer scored an unbeaten 16 off just four balls in DC's seven-wicket win over Punjab Kings in Ahmedabad on Sunday

Delhi Capitals (DC) batsman Shimron Hetmyer has credited head coach Ricky Ponting for his success in the Indian Premier League.

Hetmyer scored an unbeaten 16 off just four balls in DC’s seven-wicket win over Punjab Kings in Ahmedabad on Sunday. The West Indian, who came in to bat at No.5, following skipper Rishabh Pant’s (14) dismissal in 17th over, smashed two sixes and a four off pacer Riley Meredith in the next over. “I have only been here [with DC] for two years. And during this time, Ponting has helped me in terms of positivity. He has given us the freedom to basically go out and express ourselves. He is always there to back a player and keep pushing you to do your best,” Hetmyer said at the post-match virtual press conference on Sunday night.

Ricky Ponting

In six IPL-14 games so far, Hetmyer has scored 84 runs at a strike rate of 204. At the 2020 edition, he had scored 185 runs from 12 games at a strike rate was 148.
Hetmyer added that his IPL experience has helped him do well for West Indies. “Here [at the IPL], I have learnt to get an insight into my game. I have to keep trying to get more consistent and to keep that positivity. In the West Indies team, I bat a little bit higher, so there is a little more responsibility. I have to probably play lesser shots, but it still helps to have that positivity at the back of your mind. At any point, you can just flip a switch and be the aggressor,” said Hetmyer, 24, who has played 16 Tests, 45 ODIs and 27 T20Is for the Windies, scoring 2,647 international runs. 

On Sunday, opener Shikhar Dhawan’s unbeaten 69 off 47 balls (6x4, 2x6) set the foundation as DC comfortably chased down Punjab’s 166-6, with 14 balls to spare. 

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!