Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) batsman Mandeep Singh overcame a huge personal loss to open the innings for his team against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the 43rd match of the ongoing IPL 2020 tournament.
With regular opener Mayank Agarwal missing this game after injuring himself in the last match, KXIP brought in Mandeep Singh as a replacement, who had played three matches prior to this encounter in the IPL 13. The KXIP team players were also seen wearing black armbands as well.
It was later revealed by the franchise, that Mandeep’s father, Hardev Singh, had suffered a significant deterioration in his health last month. He was admitted to a Chandigarh-based hospital and passed away last night.
However, Mandeep showed great courage and resolve to put the game first and come out to bat for KXIP, after SRH captain David Warner won the toss and elected to bowl first. “Lost his father last night, but Mandy’s out here to open! ???? Way to go, Mandy,” KXIP tweeted.
Not only Kings XI Punjab, but former India batsman Aakash Chopra also lauded Mandeep Singh's courage and tweeted, " Brave of Mandeep to turn up for the game tonight. Lost his father....yet he’s here putting up a brave face. Strength to you and family. Deepest condolences.,"
Many fans decided to show their respects and lauded Mandeep Singh’s courage to put such a big tragedy behind to play for his team. He made 17 runs before falling to Sandeep Sharma, caught by Rashid Khan.
Here are a few tweets:
