Kyle Mayers' stroke-filled 73 off just 38 balls laid the foundation for Lucknow Super Giants' 50-run win over Delhi Capitals in the IPL on Saturday, after which the West Indian batter said he has "shown his worth".
Mayers' half-century powered LSG to 193/6, which was followed by Mark Wood's five-wicket haul (5/14) that deflated Delhi's run-chase in Lucknow's first game on their home ground -- the Ekana International Cricket Stadium.
"I have always dreamt about playing in the IPL. I got the opportunity today. In my mind I always wanted to get to a good start to show my ability and show my worth and I thought I did that," Mayers told reporters after his exploits on debut.
Included in the absence of South African star Quinton de Kock, the left-hander from Barbados was slow to start with, but opened up to launch a brutal assault once the Delhi Capitals introduced spin.
"It was a new surface. None of our teammates knew how this surface would play. We try to assess as quickly as possible. It was a slow start as we were trying to understand how the pitch was reacting and trying to adapt.
"I got struck in, faced a few balls and then just executed my plans well when the balls came in my area," said Mayers, who smashed seven sixes and two fours in his knock.
The 30-year-old Mayers was part of the Gujarat Titans side last season as a replacement for Jason Roy but didn't get a game. But he said being a part of the IPL-winning squad had helped him become a better cricketer.
"I was here last year but didn't get the opportunity to play. Being here is phenomenal for me. I didn't get the game last year but I learnt a lot just to be part of this atmosphere.
The West Indian all-rounder was brought for Rs 50 lakh by the Lucknow franchise at the IPL auction.
(With agency inputs)
