IPL 2026 : Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s victory over Mumbai Indians in Raipur had many standout moments, but one of the most emotional scenes came after the match. Krunal Pandya, who played a match-winning knock of 73 runs, was seen sharing a warm embrace with Mumbai Indians’ batting coach and his former teammate Kieron Pollard. The moment quickly caught everyone’s attention.
Krunal’s Brilliant Knock Turns the Game
RCB found themselves in a difficult position during the contest, but Krunal Pandya stepped up when his team needed him the most. His valuable 73-run innings helped Bengaluru recover from trouble and eventually secure an important win over Mumbai Indians.
His performance not only changed the momentum of the game but also earned him the spotlight after the match.
Emotional Reunion With Pollard
Once the game ended, Krunal walked towards Kieron Pollard, and the two shared an emotional hug. The bond between them was clearly visible.
Later, while speaking to Star Sports, Krunal became emotional while talking about Pollard and struggled to control his feelings.
He said that Pollard has always been like an elder brother to him and someone who played a huge role during his journey in the IPL.
Memories From Mumbai Indians Days
Krunal recalled his memorable years with Mumbai Indians under Rohit Sharma’s leadership. During that successful phase, Krunal, Hardik Pandya, and Kieron Pollard formed a strong core for the franchise.
Talking about those years, Krunal said that his best six years in cricket were spent with Mumbai Indians. He remembered how the Pandya brothers and Pollard worked together in batting, bowling, and fielding to win several matches for the team.
The Emotional Goodbye in 2021
Krunal also remembered the final game they played together in the 2021 season. According to him, both he and Pollard held each other’s hands after the match and somehow felt it could be their last game together.
That memory made their reunion even more special.
Different Teams, Same Bond
After leaving Mumbai Indians in 2022, Krunal joined Lucknow Super Giants before eventually moving to Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Hardik later returned to Mumbai Indians, while Pollard retired from professional cricket and took up the role of batting coach with the franchise.
Despite being on opposite sides now, the respect and friendship between Krunal Pandya and Kieron Pollard remains as strong as ever.
Krunal’s Special Words for Pollard
Krunal praised Pollard not only as a cricketer but also as a human being. He described him as an incredible person who has won countless matches and trophies over the years.
Krunal also shared one of Pollard’s favorite life lessons, saying that Pollard always believed that “you can never keep a good person down.”