After clinching a tight victory against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match, Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya described the match as a crucial win that tested the team’s mettle, particularly in the second innings.
The match, held at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, Chandigarh, saw Mumbai securing a 9-run victory, thanks to stellar bowling efforts from Jasprit Bumrah and Gerald Coetzee.
Pandya praised Ashutosh Sharma of PBKS for his explosive batting, where he smashed 61 runs off 28 deliveries, including seven sixes and two fours, achieving a strike rate of 217.86. “It was a crucial game for us. The tension was palpable, and it really tested our nerve. We had discussed how this game would be a test of character. Just when you think you’re in control, the IPL shows its unpredictable nature, and the opposition stages a comeback. Ashutosh was outstanding with the bat – his performance was not only impressive but also promising for his career. During the timeout, we focused on staying in the fight, avoiding easy deliveries. While the opposition played some good shots, we needed to tighten our game in certain overs,” Pandya reflected during the post-match presentation.
