The decision of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) skipper Krunal Pandya to “retire hurt” on 49 during the match against Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 sparked controversy and left fans puzzled. Speculations arose when Krunal returned to the field to bowl for LSG, leading to allegations that he had faked his injury to allow Nicholas Pooran to bat. However, several cricket personalities, including India and Rajasthan Royals all-rounder R Ashwin, explained that Krunal’s decision was well within his rights. After the match, Krunal himself clarified the situation.
Krunal Pandya, who assumed captaincy midway through the season after primary captain KL Rahul was ruled out due to injury, revealed that he had pulled a muscle, making it difficult for him to continue batting. He stated, “I was having cramps, I pulled a muscle. I have always been a team player, anything for the team, so happy with the result.” The veteran all-rounder emphasized his commitment to the team’s success despite his physical discomfort.
Krunal also praised pacer Mohsin Khan, who was playing only his second game of the season. He commended Mohsin’s resilience, mentioning that the player had undergone surgery and was now performing in the IPL. Krunal expressed his happiness in ending the season on a positive note and contributing to a victory in the last game at that venue.
The incident occurred when Krunal decided to retire hurt just before the first delivery of the 17th over. With a score of 49 off 42 balls, he allowed Nicholas Pooran to join Marcus Stoinis in the middle. Some fans speculated that Krunal’s decision might have been influenced by his inability to accelerate the run rate as desired, leading to assumptions of a “fake injury.”
Nicholas Pooran, who replaced Krunal in the batting lineup, scored only 8 runs off 8 balls, while Marcus Stoinis continued his impressive performance, scoring 89 runs off 47 balls.
On the bowling front, Krunal proved to be influential, conceding just 27 runs in his four overs, although he was unable to take any wickets.
In terms of the match result, LSG secured a victory by 5 runs, largely due to an exceptional final over by Mohsin Khan, who conceded only 5 runs when Mumbai Indians required 11 runs to win.
The incident involving Krunal’s retirement hurt has generated discussion and debate among fans and experts, but Krunal himself clarified the situation, explaining the muscle cramps that compelled him to make that decision.
