Anil bhai wanted Jitesh Sharma in squad: Mayank Agarwal

Mumbai: Praising Jitesh Sharma's vital innings, Punjab Kings Captain Mayank Agarwal said Anil Kumble wanted the talented wicketkeeper-batsman in the side at any cost.

"With Jitesh, Anil bhai had seen him when he was in Mumbai Indians. He said we have got to get this kid. He has good intent. The standout thing about him is his attitude. You can see the hunger, you can see the want. Definitely looking to play hard and positive cricket. Have to be emotionally intelligent when it doesn't come off," he said at the post-match presentation ceremony here.

Jitesh scored a very crucial 26 off 17 balls in the company of maiden IPL half-centurion Liam Livingstone.

Replying to a query, Agarwal said the team thought they were 5-7 runs short, but knew chasing 180 wasn't going to be easy, especially if they took wickets with the new ball and that's exactly what the bowlers did.

On Livingstone's innings, Agarwal said he did not say anything to him. "Everyone holds their breath when he is batting. Some of the shots he hits are spectacular," he said.

On Vaibhav Arora, Agarwal said, "He was with us a couple of years back .. saw the talent there. He's different, he's young and has got some good skills."

Meanwhile Livingstone, player of the match, said he was happy to have some runs under his belt after having dismal outings in the IPL on previous occasions.

"I have been swinging hard enough. Nice to get a couple off the middle today. You don't need to remind me about my IPL record previously. I struggled with the Rajasthan Royals as well last year. Nice to have a performance like this," he said.

"The first two games hadn't gone my way. Good to contribute to a win. Thought the boys did brilliantly," he added.

Livingstone said the team posted a defendable target and seam bowlers did the damage in the powerplay. "Got to try as smart as we can. All our conversations have been 'try and be as exciting as we can," he said.

On his two-wicket haul, the Englishman said bowling is something he really enjoys. "I have spent a lot of time on it. It's been nice to contribute. Hopefully as the tournament goes on, my spin comes into play," he said.

"I also bat in the nets with Odean Smith, he has got me covered by a long way, trust me. I am sure he will get going at some point and you'll see why," he added. (UNI)