Krunal Pandya created history, in the first game of the three match ODI series. Pandya became the man with the quickest fifty, for a debutant in international cricket. Consequently, with this innings, Pandya not only resurrected the Indian innings but, also took the team’s total to more than 317-5.
Making his debut in today’s match, Pandya came in to bat at number 7. He arrived at the crease, just after his brother Hardik Pandya was dismissed. India was struggling at 205-5 in the 41st over. After a solid platform provided by the openers, and a big partnership by Dhawan and Kohli for number three, India looked to be in great position.
However, that is when India suffered a mini collapse, as four wickets fell within a space of 36 runs. Kohli was gone for 56 quickly followed by Shreyas Iyer, Shikhar Dhawan and then Hardik Pandya. Hence, a score of 169-1 quickly became 205-5. India, who were in a position of strength suddenly lost the grip, and were in danger of being getting shot out for less than 250.
Krunal Pandya makes a rapid start
Enter Krunal Pandya at number seven. At the other end was KL Rahul, who was suffering from loss of form. Together, the duo set about putting, the Indian innings back on track.
Pandya did not take too much of time to settle as the situation demanded. Moreover, he started his fireworks, by hitting two back to back boundaries, off Sam Curran. Both the shots were pulled for fours. The last ball of the same over was flicked, for a four to make it three boundaries in the over.
Three more fours came in the next three overs, before the first six was hit by Krunal. Tom Curran’s short ball was hoicked, over the fence for a huge six. Even Mark Wood was not spared in the next over. A bumper from Wood was cut fiercely, by Pandya for second six of him.
Sizzling 50 by the debutant
In the next over, Pandya completed his historic 50 by taking a single off Tom Curran. Further, it took him just, 26 balls to complete his fifty. After he completed his 50, the batsman punched his helmet twice in a freak celebration. Post that, he took off his helmet and pointed his hands in the air looking at sky.
He had tears in his eyes as he remembered, his late father who had just passed away a couple of months ago. It was quite an emotional moment, for not only Krunal, but also Hardik Pandya. He also had his eyes moist, in a display of raw emotions.
His quick cameo included seven fours and two sixes. Pandya remained unbeaten, with 58 in 31 balls.
Watch the video of Krunal Pandya here:
