Team India won the first match in the ODI series against England by 66 runs yesterday and talking about the victory is incomplete without mentioning the ODI debut of all-rounder Krunal Pandya.
According to India Today, he scored 59 runs off 31 balls registering the fastest fifty in an ODI debut (in 26 balls) with the bat, and claimed the wicket of Sam Curran with the ball. The cricketer dedicated his knock to his late father who passed away in January 2021 due to cardiac arrest.
Papa, with every ball you were always on my mind and in my heart. Tears rolled down my face as I felt your presence with me. Thank you for being my strength, for being the biggest support I’ve had. I hope I made you proud. This is for you Papa, everything we do is for you Papa ❤️ pic.twitter.com/djQWaytETG
— Krunal Pandya (@krunalpandya24) March 23, 2021
His brother Hardik Pandya got emotional and said that their late father had sent him an early birthday gift from the heavens (it is Krunal’s 30th birthday today). The duo played together for the first time since losing their father.
Papa would be proud. He’s smiling down on you bhai and sent an early birthday gift for you. You deserve the world and more. I couldn’t be happier for you bhai. This one is for you Papa ❤️ @krunalpandya24 pic.twitter.com/xxn9wfF689
— hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) March 23, 2021
Happy birthday, Krunal! Can’t wait to see you play in the rest of the series.