These are situations when champions are made, says Pollard

After guiding Mumbai Indians to a four-wicket victory against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in an Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter on Friday, West Indian power-hitter Kieron Pollard said tough situations make you a champion.

Chasing a decent 143, Mumbai almost lost the plot in the first three overs, losing four wickets with seven runs on the board and needed a magical effort to save them.

It was at this time when Pollard slammed 70 runs from 47 balls besides forging a 93-run partnership with Krunal Pandya for the sixth wicket to rescue the visitors and change the course of the match.

"I just thought these are situations when champions are made. I thought of that and struck to my strength, hit it down the ground. Personally I've never felt out of form. I've been hitting it well in the nets and these are the times you've to dig in," Pollard said after the match.

"Krunal came in and showed his maturity too. It was a matter of watching what their bowlers. We decided that if we get a six or four off every spinner's over, we will get close if we keep it ticking and not play any dot balls," he added.

Pollard's efforts outshone his West Indies teammate Samuel Badree, who bowled a fiery spell, including a hat-trick, to be adjudged the Man-of-the-Match.

--IANS

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