IPL 2022: Lucknow Super Giants all-rounder Krunal Pandya scored a potentially crucial wicket in Mumbai on Monday when he removed the Gujarat Titans captain and his brother Hardik during a tense chase in the battle of the two new teams in Mumbai.
It was the first time Krunal and Hardik had faced each other in a high-level cricket match. (Courtesy of BCCI) Image
Hardik came out to play some spellbinding shots after Dushmantha Chameera rocked the Gujarat Titans chase with two quick wickets. He was looking really good until Krunal got pushed into the action. Against his brother, Hardik tried to turn the shot, although he played some good shots against the others, including a six against Ravi Bishnoi.
Krunal threw a clean spell and possibly frustrated, Hardik decided to take his chances only to send a skier down Manish Pandey’s throat after a long out.
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Earlier in the evening, Hardik Pandya finally bowled and appeared to be doing a decent job until his last over lasted 19 runs. Meanwhile, Krunal Pandya also made his contribution with the racquet, posting a quick unbeaten 21 to help LSG finish with 158 for 6 after their 20 overs.
Remarkably, ahead of his first game as captain of the Gujarat Titans, Hardik had spoken about the challenges he might face in his new skipper role, adding that he might meet his best friends and close friends on his journey. He didn’t have to wait long when he faced his brother in the first game of the season.
“It’s a journey where I will at times compete against my siblings, my soulmate and many of my closest friends. And like any flight, this one can have turbulence. But hey, look at me. If I’ve survived being in a national storm, a suspension, a grueling back injury and more, I know what it takes,” Hardik had told the franchise.
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