The father of Indian cricketers Hardik and Krunal Pandyas died Saturday morning at the age of 71 due to cardiac arrest. Himanshu Pandya suffered a heart attack and could not survive.
Hardik, who returned home after a limited number of series against Australia last month, was home by the time his father took his last breath. Older brother Krunal, who ran the Baroda team in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Trophy, has also left the tournament halfway to return home.
Heard about the death of Hardik and Krunal’s father with a broken heart. Spoke to him a couple of times, looking happy and full of life. May his soul rest in peace. Stay strong, you two. @ hardikpandya7 @ krunalpandya24
– Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 16, 2021
ANI reported that Baroda captain Krunal left the bio-bubble he was in with the other players on the team.
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“Yes, Krunal Pandya has left the bladder. It is a personal tragedy, the Baroda Cricket Association mourns Hardik and Krunal, ”Shishir Hattangadi, CEO of the Baroda Cricket Association, told ANI.
Former Indian Pacer Irfan Pathan took to Twitter and offered condolences. “Remember to meet Uncle for the first time in Motibagh. He was so keen that his sons played good cricket. My condolences to you and your family. May God give you strength to get through this difficult time @ krunalpandya24 @ hardikpandya7, tweeted Pathan, himself a former Baroda captain.
“When I talk about Hardik and Krunal, I can’t control my tears and that they did so well is God’s gift. Our intention to let them play cricket from a young age has been questioned and criticized by many relatives. But we weren’t ready to change our plans and it’s great to see what they have achieved now, ”Himanshu told Pandya MI TV in an interview.
