Mumbai Indians made a bold move ahead of IPL 2024 by bringing back Hardik Pandya from Gujarat Titans and appointing him as the captain, replacing Rohit Sharma. This decision stirred strong emotions among Rohit Sharma fans and MI loyalists who felt Rohit was being disrespected. Hardik Pandya faced significant backlash as a result. In the first match against Gujarat Titans, held in Ahmedabad, Hardik Pandya endured boos and jeers from the crowd, predominantly Rohit Sharma supporters. The incident underscored Rohit Sharma’s stature as a revered figure for Mumbai Indians.
Unfortunately for Mumbai Indians, the game didn’t go as planned. Despite being in a winning position during the chase, they lost to Gujarat Titans. Now, in their second match against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Hyderabad, Rohit Sharma marked his 200th IPL appearance for Mumbai Indians. Hardik Pandya, leading the team, won the toss and chose to field first, unaware of the daunting challenge ahead.
However, Sunrisers Hyderabad’s batters had other plans. Travis Head showcased his destructive prowess, smashing 62 runs off just 24 balls. Abhishek Sharma matched his intensity, scoring 63 runs off 23 balls, including 3 fours and 7 sixes, at a remarkable strike rate of 273.91. Their onslaught left the MI bowling attack in tatters. As of now, Sunrisers Hyderabad stand at 191-3 in just 14 overs, presenting Mumbai Indians with a daunting task.
Hardik Pandya Gets Trolled For Bowling Just One Over Of Jasprit Bumrah Infront Of Travis Head
During the powerplay, with Travis Head on a rampage, captain Hardik Pandya, used Jasprit Bumrah, renowned as the best bowler not only for Mumbai Indians but in the world, for just 1 over. This decision sparked intense criticism on social media, questioning why the team didn’t deploy its top bowler against Head, increasing their chances of dismissing him cheaply. As Head continued his onslaught, fans lamented the missed opportunity to utilise Bumrah’s expertise against the dangerous batsman. Hardik Pandya bore the brunt of the backlash, with many expressing disbelief at the team’s decision-making. It was a glaring oversight that left Mumbai Indians supporters frustrated and disappointed.
