- #MIForever– In his words ‘Once an MI always an MI’. Pollard will continue being part of the #Onefamily as Mumbai Indians Batting Coach and player for MI Emirates
- Most sincerely, I express my deep appreciation to Mukesh, Nita and Akash Ambani for their tremendous love, support and respect I have always felt and for the confidence they placed in me: Kieron Pollard
NE SPORTS BUREAU
MUMBAI, NOV 16
Kieron Pollard, one of the pillars of Mumbai Indians is hanging up his boots after playing for MI for 13 seasons but will continue with the MI family in his new role as batting coach, says a release.
A one-club man, adorning the Blue and Gold, Pollard signed in 2010 for Mumbai Indians and has since become one of the greatest players of this generation, picking up 5 IPL and 2 champions league trophies with Mumbai Indians. Pollard is and will continue to always be at #MIForever and will use his decades of experience and skill to strengthen Mumbai Indians as a batting coach and as a player with MI Emirates.
Commenting on this, Nita M Ambani, said, “For me, Pollard has exemplified what Mumbai Indians stand for – Khelenge Dil Khol Ke! Right from Season 3, we have shared joy, sweat, and tears – those powerful emotions that forge lifelong bonds on and off the field. He has played an important role in the success of MI and been a part of the winning side for both our Champions League trophies and all 5 IPL wins. We will miss seeing his magic on the field for MI, but I’m delighted that he will continue to play for MI Emirates, and also mentor young players as the batting coach for MI. May his new journey with MI and MI Emirates bring him even greater glory, triumph, and fulfilment. I wish him all the very best!”
Akash Ambani, said, “Polly leaves behind a huge legacy as a player with Mumbai Indians. Fans roared every time he took to the field. A valued member of the MI family and a great friend, he played the beautiful game of cricket with utmost commitment and passion all through his IPL career with us. Pleased to have Polly continue to be a part of the MI Family as a batting coach for Mumbai Indians and as player with MI Emirates. We believe, Polly will be as dynamic and impactful as a coach, just like the way he was, when he took to the field for us. His insights will be invaluable to the team, though the Mumbai Indians, Wankhede Stadium and the Paltan will miss him play on the field.
Kieron Pollard, said, “It hasn’t been the easiest decision to make as I will keep playing for a few more years, but I understand that this incredible franchise which has achieved so much needs to transition and if I’m no longer to play for MI then I cannot see myself playing against MI either. Once an MI always an MI. I am immensely proud, honoured and blessed to have represented the biggest and most successful team in the IPL for the past 13 seasons. Most sincerely, I express my deep appreciation to Mukesh, Nita and Akash Ambani for their tremendous love, support and respect I have always felt and for the confidence they placed in me. I recall our first encounter when they welcomed me with open arms saying, “We are family”. Those were not just mere words, but demonstrated by their every action throughout my time with Mumbai Indians.”
Fondly called “Polly” by team-mates and fans alike, he made his debut for Mumbai Indians in 2010 and since then has been one of the key figures in the dressing room and on the field. He played 211 games (IPL + CLT20), scoring 3915 runs, at a strike rate of 147 and despite playing in the middle order, is currently 18th on the list of IPL’s highest run getters with 3412 runs. His bowling prowess was time and again called upon, bringing to the game, a sense of control, scalping 79 wickets, with 69 of those in the IPL, making him an all-rounder for youngsters to aspire to be. With 103 catches in the IPL, he has been a match winner, game changer, big moment player, an able deputy and stepping up to captain at times, contributing with his sharp fielding and his stride to the middle, was a joy to behold.
Key Highlights from Kieron Pollard’ illustrious IPL career
- 2ndHighest Run Getter For Mumbai Indians – 3915
- Most Sixes For Mumbai Indians in IPL – 223
- 3rdMost number of catches taken in the IPL by a non-wicket keeper – 103
- 5thmost Man of the Match Awards for an overseas player – 14
- 2nd joint fastest 50 For Mumbai Indians – 17 Balls
- 2ndHighest Batting strike rate for Mumbai Indians (Min 300 Runs) – 147.32
- 180 Runs In Six IPL Finals at a strike rate of 195.65
Treasured by Mumbai Indians fans and cricket fans, Pollard is a global icon of the game, one of the most decorated and respected cricketers to wear the blue and gold and is #MIForever.
