WATCH: Keiron Pollard’s animated celebration after dismissing Andre Russell in MINY vs LAKR MLC 2024 clash

MI New York (MINY) captain Kieron Pollard was seen celebrating wildly after taking the crucial wicket of Los Angeles Knight Riders (LAKR) all-rounder Andre Russell. A victory was a must for both teams to qualify for the playoffs of the Major League Cricket (MLC) 2024. Russell's wicket in the final over of the first innings shifted momentum in favour of MI New York. 

Invited to bat first, the Knight Riders got off to a horrendous start as they lost the wicket of pinch-hitter Sunil Narine early on. A spirited display from the MINY bowlers reduced the opposition to 102-9 in the 17th over. However, with a well-set Russell at the crease, they hoped to put a respectable score on the board. 

Russell was striking at close to 170 (35 off 20) before getting dismissed by his compatriot, Pollard. The big-hitter tried to pull MINY skipper’s length delivery, but could only get a top edge. Wicketkeeper Nicholas Pooran charged to his left and took a brilliant catch. With that wicket, LAKR's innings ended and the Caribbean giant screamed at the top of his lungs. 

Here's footage of Pollard's animated reaction after Russell's dismissal:

Absolutely loving this rivalry ⚔️ 😍 Look at what it means to Kieron Pollard! 🔵 #MLC2024 | #CognizantMajorLeagueCricket | #T20 pic.twitter.com/AHZpQBYTgJ

— Major League Cricket (@MLCricket) July 22, 2024

MINY knock LAKR out of the tournament

Russell’s wicket on the first ball of the final over resulted in LAKR finishing at 130. Rashid Khan took three wickets, while Trent Boult and Nosthush Kenjige grabbed two each. Batting in reply, MINY chased down the target in 17 overs. Opener Dewald Brevis gave a flying start with 19-ball 27. Pooran played an effective cameo in the middle overs and Pollard took the team over the line with a blazing finish (33* off 12).

Speaking after the match, the MINY skipper said: “Very relieved, congrats to the entire team. The way we fought, everyone chipped in usefully. If we look at the history of how we've batted, 130 was a tough ask. But we got another opportunity, the attitude shown by everyone was fantastic. I always pride myself on performing for the franchise and I'm glad it came off today.”