LSG VS MI: Krunal Pandya Clarifies ‘Retire Hurt’ Decision amid Social Media Trolling

Lucknow Super Giants’ stand-in captain, Krunal Pandya, provided clarification regarding his retirement during the IPL 2023 clash against Mumbai Indians. Despite exhibiting signs of struggle and a slight limp while batting, Krunal made the decision to retire hurt after reaching a commendable score of 49 runs in the 16th over. However, this move triggered accusations from some quarters, alleging that he feigned the injury to manipulate the run rate with Nicholas Pooran. 

Contrary to the skepticism, Krunal was observed imparting instructions to the dugout while ascending the stairs towards the dressing room, suggesting that the injury was not severe in nature. Shortly after, he swiftly returned to the field, demonstrating his physical fitness and even bowled the first over of the innings, leaving no room for doubt. Remarkably, Krunal’s bowling performance remained exceptional throughout his four-over spell, conceding a mere 27 runs.

LSG VS MI: “I Was Having Cramps,” Clarifies Pandya

“I was having cramps, I pulled a muscle. I have always been a team player, anything for the team, so happy with the result,” Krunal Pandya said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

Nonetheless, it was Marcus Stoinis who emerged as the catalyst for the team’s triumph. The versatile all-rounder’s unbeaten knock of 89 runs off 47 deliveries proved instrumental in propelling Lucknow Super Giants to an imposing total of 177/3 in their allotted 20 overs. Stoinis’ aggressive batting prowess, which commanded a striking strike rate of 189.36, served as a pivotal factor, especially on a challenging playing surface that had limited the occurrence of expansive shots throughout the season.

When it came to defending their total, Lucknow Super Giants exhibited remarkable tenacity and resilience, effectively containing the Mumbai Indians’ batting line-up. Despite the formidable 90-run opening partnership between Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan, the Super Giants managed to restrict their opponents to a final total of 172/5. Leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi showcased his talent with the ball, leaving an indelible mark by claiming figures of 2/26 in his allotted four overs. 

Complementing Bishnoi’s impressive display, left-arm pacer Mohsin Khan demonstrated nerves of steel during the crucial final over, conceding a mere 5 runs while defending a challenging target of 11 runs against the hard-hitting duo of Tim David and Cameron Green.