Wankhede rises to honour Madhav Mantri

Fans at the Wankhede observe a 2-minute silence for Mantri. Pic/Suresh KK.

The Wankhede Stadium observed a minute's silence to pay homage to Madhav Mantri, India's oldest Test cricketer, who passed away yesterday morning at the age of 92 following a massive heart attack. However, a section of the crowd cut an ugly picture, blowing air horns and chanting ‘Sachin Sachin' initially. They settled down only after repeated announcements to maintain silence.

Fans at the Wankhede observe a 2-minute silence for Mantri. Pic/Suresh KK.

Meanwhile, Sachin Tendulkar paid rich tribute to Mantri while speaking to IPL's official broadcaster before the match. "It is extremely unfortunate to learn about the demise of Madhav Mantri Sir this morning. It is a huge loss. We will miss you sir. Thanks for all your contribution, encouragement and support. May his soul rest in peace."

KP plays it fair
The start of the Mumbai Indians-Delhi Daredevils clash was delayed by a few minutes due to an odd reason. Praveen Kumar mysteriously injured himself during the warm-up session, but after the toss had taken place. MI wanted to replace him with Pragyan Ojha, who was not even amongst the four reserve players. Apoorv Wankhede, Ben Dunk, Corey Anderson and Sushant Marathe were amongst the reserves.

While MI openers Michael Hussey and Lendl Simmons were ready in the dugout, their mentor Anil Kumble and coach John Wright were engaged in a discussion with Delhi skipper Kevin Pietersen and coach Gary Kirsten along with IPL COO Sundar Raman and umpires S Ravi and Rod Tucker.

According to Law 1.2 that governs playing conditions: "Each captain shall nominate his players in writing to one of the umpires before the toss. No player may be changed after the nomination without the consent of the opposing captain." It seemed after much deliberations, Pietersen allowed left-arm spinner Ojha as replacement for medium-pacer Praveen.

The decision was appreciated by television commentator Harsha Bhogle. "Very sporting of @KP24 to allow #mi a replacement for the praveen kumar injury. especially since it is a left-arm spinner!" Bhogle tweeted.

DD's JP Duminy said: "Delhi did not want to be a spoilsport. We wanted to give ourselves the best chance to play against anyone." Ojha finished with 0-33 in his four overs.