Karn Sharma showed a lot of heart: Pandya

New Delhi, April 13 (PTI) An illuminated Hardik Pandya credited ‘Impact Sub’ Karn Sharma for showing a lot of heart to the fashion Indians’ 12-run against Delhi Capitals on Sunday, a result that helped the visitors get their IPL campaign back on track. DC crossed the halfway at 119 at 119, but was eventually bowled out for 193 in 19 overs, with spinner Karn played an important role by taking three wickets for 36 runs. It was captain Rohit Sharma who suggested to coach Mahela Jayawardene to bring Karn into the attack and also requested a ball change after the 11th. “Absolutely. Winning is always special. Especially in games like this. You have to keep fighting and that means a lot,” Pandya said during the presentation after the match when asked if he felt relieved after MI secured only their second win of the season. ‘(Karn was) fantastic. To come in and bowl as he bowls showed a lot of heart, especially on a small ground like that. ‘ Karun Nair’s Whirlwind 89 went in vain, and Pandya admitted that the beat surprised them. “We didn’t have the options about what to bowl after him. The way he adopted our bowlers took his chances and the way he performed – it shows the hard work he has done. I think he surprised us. ‘ DC fighters had a dramatic collapse that included three consecutive results and ended their chase in 193. “I always believe that fieldwork is something that can change the game upside down. We have been turned on, did not give up, and they got the chances and converted.” Tilak Varma was sent in to wake up a 33-ball 59 to Mumbai Indians until 205 for 5. Ryan Rickelton (41 out of 25), Suryakumar Yadav (40 out of 28), and Naman Dhir (38 out of 17) also made important contributions. Pandya talked about MI’s batting approach and said it depends on the situation. ‘Amazing. It will always depend on the situation. The more players in the form try to face the balls and take responsibility. ‘ Obviously, Dew played a factor later. Just make sure the game is not over until it’s over. Keep fighting – it was the chatter in the group and my message to the boys. Profits like this change the momentum and bring everything back. “The Delhi Capitals captain Axar Patel blamed ‘soft layoffs’ in the middle order for the loss, but didn’t want to stay too much about the result.’ not. Axar also pointed to sloppy fieldwork as a factor that enabled MI to cross the 200 mark, but praised his turning unit. I have confidence in bowling of all three of our spinners, and two of the three can bowl in the PowerPlay, “he said.” Kuldeep is incredibly bowling this season. Every time I need a wicket, I can go to him. I think there were a lot of positive aspects today – we just have to forget about this game. ” First published: 14 Apr 2025, 12:16 am Ist