The IPL match between the Kings and the Royals came down to the wire. The Royals needed eight runs off the final six balls to chase down a target of 190. Shimron Hetmyer, batting for the Royals, had already racked up 24 runs off 12 balls and was striking at two runs per delivery. His partner at the other end hadn’t scored yet. With six balls left, the Kings shifted their fielders deep, trying to prevent boundaries. The first delivery was too wide and called for an extra run, leaving seven required off six. The next ball was a spinner, and Hetmyer crushed it for six. Now only one run was needed.
The Kings pulled their fielders closer, trying to cut off any quick runs. Hetmyer adjusted but hit it straight to a fielder. Same outcome on the following ball. Suddenly, it was three balls left with one run to win. On the next pitch, Hetmyer changed approach. Instead of waiting on the bounce, he stepped forward and tapped it just over the infield. That bloop hit was enough to seal the win. The Royals’ dugout exploded. Hetmyer stayed cool and smiling. It was another close finish, shaped by small adjustments, tight fielding, and smart batting under pressure.