"God of day-games!"- MI fans erupt as Quinton de Kock, Krunal Pandya shut down critics
Mumbai Indians (MI) have successfully returned to winning ways in their first game in Delhi this season against the Rajasthan Royals (RR), thanks to Quinton de Kock's brilliant 70*. The Proteas opener's return to form is the biggest positive the defending champions will take away from this game.
After a scratchy start to his IPL 2021 season, where a run-a-ball 40 was the best that he could manage, Quinton de Kock's place in the side was questioned by fans and pundits alike. Australian opener Chris Lynn was tipped to replace De Kock as the former scored a well-made 49 in the first game.
MI fans hail Quinton de Kock for his blistering 70*
The MI think tank backed their star opener and Quinton de Kock lived up to the faith shown in him. With Ishan Kishan missing out, all-rounder Krunal Pandya was slotted in at No.4. The Team India star was also under the scanner after a string of poor performances.
But Krunal delivered with a quickfire 39 and formed a match-winning partnership with Quinton de Kock. MI fans were ecstatic to see their team back to their best after a tough time in Chennai. The pitch in Delhi seems to suit their style and they will hope that MI embark on a winning streak from here on.
Here is how Twitter reacted to Quinton de Kock's brilliant innings and MI's emphatic win over RR:
Some brilliant death bowling by MI ensured that RR were restricted to 171-4 in their 20 overs. On a good batting surface and with smaller ground dimensions, MI would have been happy with the target in front of them. Jasprit Bumrah was sensational with figures of 1-15.
MI still had to get off to a good start and although Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav lost their wickets, Quinton de Kock ensured that he anchored the innings. Since he was out of form, the Proteas batsman took his time to settle. Once he found his groove, de Kock began playing his shots.
Kieron Pollard applied the finishing touches to the chase as MI wrapped up the game with seven wickets in hand. This win will certainly have lifted their spirits and will give them much-needed confidence going forward.