Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya lavished praise on 'impact sub' Karn Sharma for showing a lot of heart that helped the visitors to register a 12-run win against Delhi Capitals at Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.
DC were cruising at 119 in halfway stage but the side bowled out for 193 in 19 overs, where spinner Karn played a pivotal role by taking three wickets for 36 runs.
"Absolutely. Winning is always special. Especially in games like this. You have to keep fighting and it means a lot," said Pandya at the post-match presentation when asked if he felt relieved after MI secured only their second win of the season.
"(Karn was) Fantastic. Coming in and bowling the way he bowled, showed a lot of heart, especially at a small ground like that."
DC's Karun Nair's whirlwind 89 went in vain and Hardik also admitted that his knock surprised MI
"We were running out of options regarding what to bowl at him. The way he took on our bowlers, took his chances, and the way he executed — it shows the hard work he has put in. I think he took us by surprise."
DC batters suffered a dramatic collapse that included three successive run-outs, ending their chase at 193.
"I always believe fielding is something that can change the game upside down. We were switched on, didn't give up, and they got the chances and converted."
Speaking about MI's batting approach, Pandya said it depends on the situation.
"Amazing. It's always going to depend on the situation. The more the in-form players try to face the balls and take responsibility.
"Obviously, dew played a factor later. Just making sure the game is not over till it’s over. Keep fighting — that was the chatter in the group and my message to the boys. Wins like this change the momentum and bring everything back."
Mumbai Indians will now face Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 17 at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.