Mumbai Indians batsman Michael Hussey said that his side were not yet out of a race for the play-off stage after their crucial 25-run victory over Rajasthan Royals in an IPL match here today.
"We are not yet out of the play-offs," Hussey said at the post-match press conference.
"We still have faith (to make it to play-off stage) and that's the atmosphere in our dressing room. We still have three matches left. However, instead of thinking about the play-offs, we will just try to focus on our next match and give our best to win it," he said.
The 38-year-old Australian said the pitch at Sardar Patel Stadium, where MI scored a competitive 178 for three riding on half-centuries from Lendl Simons (62) and Hussey (56), was not easy for batting.
"It was quite hot and the pitch was not easy for batsmen. It was a slow pitch. Me and Lendl (Simons) tried to take our partnership ahead. After 6 overs, I thought we will make around 160 runs. But, thanks to some good batting, we gave a good total to defend," said Hussey, who credited Mumbai bowlers for the comfortable win," he said.
"It's hard to replace (Lasith) Malinga, but, (Krishmar) Santokie did a very good job today. He is a smart bowler. (Jasprit) Bumrah was also impressive. He is a great prospect for his country."
Royals were never in the chase as they were restricted for 153 for 8. Karun Nair with 48 off 24 balls was the lone ranger for the Royals. Brad Hodge (40) and James Faulkner (31) tried their bit but it was too late by then.
Hodge said it was not their day.
"Though you may do everything right, you need miracle at times to win a game. Sometimes the recipe doesn't taste as good as it looks," he said.
Hodge said Mumbai bowlers didn't allow them to gain momentum while chasing the stiff target.
"From the beginning, they (Mumbai) didn't allow our batsmen to gain momentum. We are an extremely talented team, but it became tough after some of our key wickets fell," said Hodge, also an Australian.
