India, April 18 -- Even before a single ball was bowled in MI's innings against Sunrisers, Thursday night's IPL clash had plenty at stake. But amidst the flurry of boundaries, wickets, and pressure, a quieter subplot played out; one that involved a long-time admirer of Rohit Sharma, Travis Head, watching the MI batter from close quarters and, eventually, helping in dismissing him.

The moment came in the fourth over of Mumbai's innings. Rohit Sharma, fresh off a couple of sixes, tried to cut a short ball from Pat Cummins, only to edge it straight into the safe hands of Travis Head. But what followed made fans take notice. As Rohit turned and began his walk back to the pavilion, Head's eyes remained locked on him; unblinking, unmoved.

It ...