KOLKATA: After helping Gujarat Titans (GT) seal a spot in the final of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) here at the Eden Gardens on Tuesday, star batter David Miller said continued backing from the team has played a big role in improving his game in this season.
Miller was the chief architect of GT's seven-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals in Qualifier 1. Miller played an unbeaten knock of 68 from 38 balls, supported by skipper Hardik's 40 off 27 balls, which took debutants Gujarat through to the final .
"I think opportunity, firstly," said Miller at the post-match presentation, answering a question on what has changed for him. "I've been given a role, I felt extremely backed from the outset...I'm enjoying my role. I've been playing for many years now and understanding my game a lot better. In high-pressure situations, you tend to go away from your game plan, but I feel like I'm trying to keep everything together close to the game plan.
"There has been a lot of 'going (bowling) wide to me' on the off-side, so I decided actually for the first time to step across, backed myself and went with it (the shot). The rest I tried to hit as hard as possible," he added.
The South African struck five sixes, including three in the final over when 17 runs were needed, in a thrilling chase of 189.
"You have to control what you can, can't think too much ahead. Concentrate on your breathing, and if it's in your area, you have to capitalise," said Miller.
"We've got a few days off. There's a bus trip back, we'll have a few drinks and celebrate."
Gujarat Titans will now wait to see who among Lucknow Super Giants, Royal Challengers Bangalore and Rajasthan Royals they will face in the title clash in Ahmedabad on May 29.
