(PTI Photo)
Pat Cummins conveyed to Shreyas Iyer that the Orange Army has reserved their finest performance for the final moments.
Today marks the pinnacle of excitement as the IPL 2024 final unfolds at the iconic M Chidambaram Stadium, Chepauk on Sunday, May 26. It’s a historic showdown as Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) vie for the ultimate honor, meeting in a summit clash for the first time in the league’s history. Ahead of this epic encounter, the captains, Shreyas Iyer and Pat Cummins, exchanged messages, which were showcased in a special video released by the official IPL handle.
As the final showdown approached, both captains acknowledged each other’s leadership prowess displayed throughout the season. While sharing mutual respect, they also exchanged cautionary notes about the impending clash. Iyer gently reminded Cummins of their team’s advantageous position, highlighting their impressive season record. In response, Cummins reassured that his team had reserved their peak performance for this crucial moment, hinting at a formidable challenge ahead.
What did the captains say?
“Dear Pat! today, I thought it might be fun to drop you a little note. First off, let me just say you’ve done an amazing job leading the Orange Army this season. This season we have given you a tough time. Let me remind you, you faced the same opponent at a different venue. But today you will be against colours that will be familiar to you purple and gold. Here’s to a thrilling final. May the best team win, and by best, I mean ours,” Iyer said in his address to Cummins.
“Cummins conveyed to Iyer his appreciation for the thoughtful message, expressing gratitude. While acknowledging their exemplary leadership styles, he couldn’t help but recall their triumphant victory on the very grounds they were set to meet again. Despite acknowledging the challenges posed by KKR throughout the season, Cummins confidently assured Iyer that the Sunrisers Hyderabad squad was reserving their finest performance for the final showdown, hinting at an intense battle come Sunday.”
“In the current season, SRH has faced defeat against KKR twice, with a narrow 4-run loss in the league stage followed by an 8-wicket defeat in the Qualifier 1 match. Additionally, KKR boasts a significant achievement, having clinched their maiden IPL title back in 2012 at the same venue, the M Chidambaram Stadium. Notably, since 2018, there has been a trend where the team emerging victorious in Qualifier 1 has ultimately lifted the coveted trophy.”