Kieron Pollard, the veteran West Indies all-rounder, turned back the clock with a stunning display of power-hitting in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2025, reigniting debates about his premature departure from the Mumbai Indians (MI). Playing for the Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) against the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots, the 38-year-old smashed seven sixes in just eight balls, propelling his team to a formidable total and reminding everyone of his unparalleled finishing prowess.

Pollard’s carnage began in the 15th over, where he launched two towering sixes off Navin Bidaisee. He then unleashed his fury on Waqar Salamkheil in the following over, hitting four consecutive sixes. This onslaught led to a blistering half-century off just 21 deliveries. He finished with 65 runs off 29 balls, boasting a strike rate of 224.14, including eight sixes and two fours. This explosive innings not only electrified the Brian Lara Stadium but also showcased Pollard's enduring ability to single-handedly change the course of a game.

With this performance, Pollard has amassed 223 runs in 6 innings at an average of 74.33 and a strike rate of 182.78 in CPL 2025. Beyond this recent performance, Pollard has been in impressive form in the CPL 2025, making valuable contributions with both bat and ball. Before this match, in the 10th match of CPL 2025, Pollard played a quick innings of 65 runs in 29 balls with 4 fours and 6 sixes. He also recently joined Chris Gayle as only the second player to score 14,000 runs in T20 cricket.

Pollard's explosive performances have reignited the discussion about Mumbai Indians' decision to let him go after the IPL 2022 season. After a below-par IPL 2022 season, where he averaged just 14.40 with a strike rate of 107.46, the Mumbai Indians opted to move in a different direction, focusing on a transition phase. Pollard, a long-time servant of the franchise, then announced his retirement from the IPL. He had played for MI for 13 seasons and was part of all five of their IPL title-winning campaigns.

However, since his IPL retirement, Pollard has showcased remarkable consistency and power in various T20 leagues worldwide. His strong performances in leagues like the MLC 2025, where he scored 317 runs in 12 games for MI New York at an average of 39.62, including a highest score of 70, have led many to question whether MI made a premature decision.

While Mumbai Indians recognized Pollard's value by appointing him as their batting coach, some argue that they missed out on his potential as a player and mentor within the team. His continued dominance in T20 leagues proves that he still possesses the explosive hitting ability that once made him one of the IPL's most feared finishers.

Ultimately, whether it was a miscalculation or a strategic move for the future, Kieron Pollard's recent heroics in the CPL serve as a powerful reminder of his enduring talent and match-winning capabilities.