Mumbai Indians members have travelled to Abu Dhabi ahead of IPL 2021 for preparation.
Indian Premier League (IPL) defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) departed for UAE on Friday (August 13) from the Mumbai Airport. They were surprised by the pilot as he gave a 'MI' touch to the announcement before taking off.
The pilot used the reference of the Mumbai Indians players while sharing information on the flight. They welcomed the franchise members and also extended their best wishes for the second half of IPL 2021.
"It is an honour to welcome you aboard on this flight 9065 charter service from Mumbai to Abu Dhabi. Considering the rains coming in today morning, we managed a quick started departure. Just like how Rohit Sharma and Quinton de Kock do it for the team," he said.
The pilot further mentioned the likes of Kieron Pollard, Ishan Kishan, Jasprit Bumrah, and Suryakumar Yadav in his announcement.
"As per the flight details, we are flying airbus 321 aircraft cruising at 3000ft above sea level. Flight will be maintaining a ground speed of about 900km/h that gives us about 45 minutes before we land at our destination. That's just the time Kieron Pollard needs to score another century."
"Forecast conditions at the destination, we are expecting a sunny morning with the temperature of 32 degrees. Pretty much calmness just like Jasprit Bumrah kept during the super over of 2017 playoff against KKR.
"We shall try landing in Abu Dhabi as early as possible depending on air traffic congestion. However I can say it won't be as quick as Hardik Pandya or Ishan Kishan's half-century record.
"On behalf of the entire Indigo family, we wish you all the very best for the season. It's an absolute honour to have you on board this morning. Thank You!", the pilot concluded.
MI will play the opening match of IPL 2021's second phase against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on September 19 in Dubai. They are currently at fourth in the points table below Delhi Capitals, CSK, and Royal Challengers Bangalore.