‘Everything we do is for you, Papa’: Emotional Krunal Pandya dedicates ODI debut to late father

Pune: After a blistering knock of unbeaten 58 from the all-rounder to take over the record of fastest one-day international (ODI) fifty by a debutant, emotional Krunal Pandya on Tuesday dedicated it to his father who passed away in January following a cardiac arrest.
“This innings was for my dad. It was very emotional,” a teary-eyed Krunal told at the post-match presentation, to presenter Murali Kartik. As Krunal broke down in tears, Kartik asked him to take his time. The interview was then cut short.
Cameras then showed him embracing his younger brother Hardik Pandya. Both of them shared an emotional moment.
https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1374342265338929160 Later, Kunal took to his social media accounts to write: “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..” 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 Hardik Pandya too, did not seem less proud as his brother received his debutant ODI cap and went on to play a record-breaking knock. When Krunal reached his half-century and raised his bat to the heavens in mark of respect for his father, Hardik was at boundary rope applauding while controlling his tears.
Picture of the day. #INDvsENG pic.twitter.com/nkQNX2ZA9s — Captain (@iEatCricket) March 23, 2021 “Papa would be proud. He’s smiling down on you bhai and sent an early birthday gift for you,” Hardik wrote. The limited-overs specialist, who also plays for Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier league, turns 30 today.