• Sportzyverse
• IPL 2024
• 04/12/2024
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In a heartening display of sportsmanship, Virat Kohli, former captain of Royal Challengers Bangalore, stepped up to support Mumbai Indians skipper Hardik Pandya during the IPL 2024 clash between RCB and MI at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. Amidst the hostile chants directed towards Pandya by some Mumbai Indians fans, Kohli gestured from the field, reminding the crowd of Pandya’s contributions to Indian cricket.

Fans’ Hostility Towards Pandya

Since assuming the role of Mumbai Indians captain, Pandya has faced criticism and jeers from some sections of the MI fanbase. The backlash intensified as Pandya replaced Rohit Sharma as skipper and made a high-profile move from Gujarat Titans to Mumbai Indians ahead of the IPL 2024 season. Despite his stellar performances in the international arena, Pandya encountered a venomous reception in Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Hyderabad.

When Pandya took to the field to chase down the target for Mumbai Indians, Kohli intervened to quieten the hostile crowd. Kohli’s gesture, urging the Wankhede faithful to applaud their captain, garnered widespread praise for its display of sportsmanship and camaraderie. The moment epitomised the spirit of cricket, transcending rivalries and emphasising mutual respect among players.

Virat Kohli showing his chest and telling the crowd that Hardik Pandya plays for India toopic.twitter.com/CzKG4fkeRk

— CricTracker (@Cricketracker) April 12, 2024

Pandya’s Heroic Finish

In a thrilling finale at a packed Wankhede Stadium, Pandya showcased his prowess with a quick-fire unbeaten knock of 21 runs off just six balls, including a crucial six to seal Mumbai Indians’ victory over Royal Challengers Bangalore. Supported by stellar performances from Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav, Mumbai Indians chased down the target of 197 runs in 15.3 overs, securing their second win of the IPL 2024 season.

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Jasprit Bumrah, the standout performer for Mumbai Indians, was rightfully awarded the Player of the Match for his remarkable five-wicket haul that turned the tide in Mumbai’s favour. Pandya lauded Bumrah’s exceptional skills and emphasised the team’s cohesive effort in clinching the victory.

Kohli’s solidarity towards Pandya resonated deeply with fans and players alike, underscoring the essence of sportsmanship and camaraderie in the IPL. As Mumbai Indians continue their campaign in the IPL 2024, the gesture serves as a reminder of the values that unite players and fans across the cricketing spectrum