Hardik and Krunal pens down emotional messages for their father

India won the first ODI of the three-match series against England by 66 runs. It was a day for the debutants Krunal Pandya and Prasidh Krishna who played crucial roles in helping the team win. In particular, it was an emotional day for the all-rounder who played for India for the first time since his father’s demise. Krunal got emotional when he got his debut ODI cap earlier in the day and was seen hugging his brother Hardik Pandya as well.

Moreover, he did extremely well in his first appearance with the bat slamming the fastest fifty (26 balls) on debut in ODIs ever. His unbeaten 58-run knock off 31 balls helped India post a mammoth total of 317 runs on the board. To cap off a brilliant day, the left-arm spinner also picked up a wicket to end with the figures of 1/59.

However, in between, Krunal Pandya got very much emotional and broke down in the mid-innings break. After playing a brilliant knock, he was called upon for an interview by the commentators. But Krunal couldn’t even speak a word and started crying. Rather he broke down then while hugging his brother Hardik as well.

This one is for you papa, says Hardik

In the end, Krunal Pandya’s efforts capped off a sensational win for India and Hardik Pandya, soon after the match, penned down an emotional message for his brother to make the moment even more special for him. He stated that their father, Himanshu, will be proud of him and also dedicate this effort to their father. Hardik Pandya also mentioned that he is happy for his elder brother while also adding that the left-hander deserved all the accolades.

Here’s his tweet:

Papa would be proud. He’s smiling down on you bhai and sent an early birthday gift for you. You deserve the world and more. I couldn’t be happier for you bhai. This one is for you Papa ❤️ @krunalpandya24 pic.twitter.com/xxn9wfF689

— hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) March 23, 2021

Krunal Pandya’s emotional message for father

Soon after the match ended, Krunal Pandya took to Twitter to pen down an emotional message for his father Himanshu Pandya who passed away in January after suffering a cardiac arrest. The 29-year old broke down twice on the field before taking to Twitter to write the emotional message.

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

On the field, Krunal struggled to keep his emotions under control twice. He got emotional after receiving his maiden ODI cap from his brother Hardik. Krunal was then seen crying when he was being interviewed by the broadcasters after his impressive fifty.