Zaheer Khan reveals real reason behind Kieron Pollard’s omission from Mumbai’s playing XI
Over the years, Kieron Pollard has gone on to become synonymous with Mumbai. As a matter of fact, he has played an influential role in Mumbai winning five titles. Thus, it wouldn’t be an overstatement to say that he is one of the greatest players to have played for the Mumbai-based franchise.
In the 189 games he has played in the Indian T20 League, Pollard has scored 3412 runs at an average and strike rate of 28.67 and 147.32 respectively. However, he has been below-par in the ongoing 15th edition of the league. Pollard has only scored 114 runs in 11 games at an average of 14.40 this season. His poor form was one of the main reasons why Mumbai were the first team to be knocked out from the race to the playoffs.
Thus, he didn’t play their recent game against Chennai. Mumbai’s Director of Cricket Operations Zaheer Khan Zaheer Khan drew light on Pollard’s exclusion. After the completion of the match, he explained that this was the final leg of the tournament, and they wanted to try out some new faces. Khan also spoke about how Pollard has been one of the greatest contributors to the success of the franchise.
“Pollard has been one of the main contributors to the success of this franchise over the years, he’s been part of the processes through and through. Like I mentioned, it is the last leg of the tournament, so that’s why a few new faces and as an individual and as a member of the core group,” said Zaheer Khan.
It is to be noted that Mumbai’s skipper had also mentioned during the toss that Pollard was ready to be dropped. In the meanwhile, Khan also stated that the Caribbean all-rounder made it easy for them. He also appreciated him for his contributions from the sidelines. As for the Mumbai-based franchise, they beat Chennai by five wickets. Thus, they have now won three out of their 12 games this season.
“Pollard was on board, it wasn’t easy on him but he made it easy for us. He has been a great team man and even today it was nice to see his contributions from the sidelines,” he added.
