SPORTS
Jonathan Ramnansingh
“HULK”, “destructive” and “powerhouse” were some of the apt words used to describe the impact that Trinidad and Tobago all-rounder Kieron Pollard had during his prolific 13-year Indian Premier League career with the top-flight side. well mumbai. Indians (MI).
Pollard called it quits on his illustrious career on Tuesday but has taken over as MI’s batting coach. Additionally, he will go on to play for the MI Emirates franchise team in the inaugural edition of the UAE T20 International League.
The former West Indies captain’s journey with MI began in 2010. Since then he has represented them in 189 matches, scoring 3,412 runs and is currently the team’s most capped player. He also took 69 wickets.
With MI, Pollard won the Champions League T20 in 2011 and 2013 and the IPL in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020.
In a post on social media, Pollard wrote: “It has not been the easiest decision to make as I intend to continue playing for a few more years but after discussions with MI I have decided to call time on my career my IPL. I understand that this incredible franchise that has achieved so much needs a transition and if I’m not going to play for MI anymore then I can’t see myself playing against MI. Once an MI, always an MI.”
Former and current Indian national team players and MI legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Harbhajan Singh, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, former Sri Lankan fast bowler Lasith Malinga and MI franchise owner Nita Ambani, i paid tribute to the game-changing player.
A statement released by MI in celebration of Pollard’s legacy and desire to serve the club in a different role read, “#55 in Mumbai is no ordinary number. You don’t just wear it with pride. I wear it responsibly. The responsibility to throw yourself around. Liability to rob matches that are clearly dead and buried.
“The responsibility to build a ten meter high fortress in a long time. Simply put, the responsibility to spoil an entire generation of us Mumbai Indians fans and make us believe in miracles.”
MI’s Ambani, who is currently in the UAE ahead of the T20 League to be held in January, hailed Pollard’s crucial role with the team over the years.
She said, “To me, Pollard has exemplified what Mumbai Indians stand for – Khelenge Dil Khol Ke (will play with an open heart)! Since the third season (2012), we have shared joy, sweat and tears – those powerful emotions that create lifelong bonds on and off the field.
“He has played an important role in MI’s success and has been part of the winning team for both our Champions League trophies and all five IPL victories.
“We will miss seeing his magic on the field for MI, but I am delighted that he will continue to play for MI Emirates, and also mentor the young players as batting coach for MI. May his new journey with MI and MI Emirates bring him even greater glory, triumph and fulfillment. I wish him all the best.”
Cricket legend Tendulkar, who is part of the MI management, and also played alongside Pollard in his early years with the franchise, praised Pollard’s career there and congratulated him as the new batting coach.
Taking to Twitter, Tendulkar tweeted, “At @mipaltan there is never a goodbye Polly. Congratulations on becoming the new batting coach for the MI franchise. Your presence will be a big influence for all the boys in hole.”
Sharma, another Indian betting phenom, posted on Instagram saying, “Big man, big influence and always played with heart. A true legend of MI. (It will be) difficult not to have you on the field with us.”
Pacer Bumrah confirmed that he will miss the TT player to bat for MI in the middle.
He said, “It’s going to take some getting used to not being on the court with us, but I’ll still enjoy our banter in the nets. Congratulations on an outstanding career Polly and all the best in your new ranks.”
Dynamic Indian batsman Yadav tweeted: “From then till now, the brotherhood has become stronger Polly. It will be difficult not having you on the field with us, but very excited to have the opportunity to continue to learn from you in your new role. I wish you all the best for this new chapter.”
Malinga, who won the IPL title with Pollard, said: “Happy retirement Polly! I really enjoyed playing alongside you over the years, great man. All the best for the next phase of your cricketing journey. The MI hit is sure to go from strength to strength under your guidance.”
