IPL 2017: Hardik deserves lot of credit for my success, says Krunal Pandya after match-winning performance in IPL 10 final
IPL 2017: Hardik deserves lot of credit for my success, says Krunal after IPL 10 final
Mumbai Indians (MI) pulled off an improbable win in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2017 final on Sunday night, when they staged comeback against odds to register a stunning 1-run win over Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS) at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. The chief architect of their victory was Krunal Pandya, whose all-round skills saw the team cross the finishing line. Coming in to bat at 3 for 41 in the 8th over, Krunal scored a patient 38-ball 47 to guide Mumbai to a competitive total. He was dismissed on the final ball of the innings. He then returned to open the bowling attack and bowled full quota of four overs.
A deserving Man of the Match, Krunal credited his success to brother Hardik Pandya. “I give Hardik a lot of credit for my success,” Krunal said, speaking to BCCI after the match. “Also, our parents have always supported us till date irrespective of our performances and results. We would also like to thank our coach back home who has helped us day in and day out. Credit to the entire Mumbai Indians support staff and team management who have made us feel like family. Special mention for Kiran More sir, whose academy we have been playing for since childhood,” Krunal added.
Krunal further said playing a match-winning knock on a grand stage is something he has always dreamt off. “It is a dream come true for me. To play an IPL final and contribute to a winning cause is a proud feeling. A big game on a big night and to end up lifting the trophy is a huge moment for me,” he said.
Younger brother Hardik, too, was all praise for his brother, calling him a champion. “I am just proud of him. He has delivered champion performances time and again in this tournament and I am just glad to be sharing this moment with my brother,” Hardik said, before adding, “He has worked very hard for this moment and has put in the hard yards over the last couple of years. Now he is here and he truly deserves it. Champion stuff.”
The Pandya brothers also thanked their coach Jitendra Singh, crediting him for everything they have achieved so far. “Coach, we are here because of you. You are the real champion. Because of you, we are standing here. I have two IPL trophies and Krunal has one now. Thank you for everything,” Hardik signed off.