Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan expressed his disapproval of Tim David batting at number 6 in the match against Gujarat Titans. Pathan, who shared his thoughts on social media, indirectly criticized Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya for sending David ahead of him in their team’s loss by 6 runs.
It was Hardik Pandya’s first match back at the Narendra Modi Stadium in the IPL since the 2023 final, where his team GT lost to CSK. GT had the chance to become the second team after CSK to successfully defend their IPL title, which they won in 2022.
Last night, Pandya had the opportunity to help Mumbai Indians secure their first win against Gujarat at the world’s largest stadium, which is GT’s home ground. However, the outcome remained the same as before. The Gujarat bowlers performed exceptionally well in the death overs, but according to Irfan Pathan, there was another issue.
Irfan Pathan Slammed Hardik Pandya For His ‘Cowardice Move’ During MI vs GT Match
Meanwhile, former all-rounder Irfan Pathan, who is part of the Star Sports commentary team, suggested that if he were MI’s coach, he would have opted for an Indian batsman to face the spinners. His remarks also hinted at the vulnerability of foreign batsmen against high-quality slow bowlers.
“Why Tim David was ahead of Hardik when Rashid Khan’s one-over was left? I would choose Indian better than overseas batter any day vs spinner.”
Why Tim David was ahead of Hardik when Rashid khan’s one over was left ? I would choose Indian better than overseas batter any day vs spinner. #GTvsMI
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) March 24, 2024
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In the crucial stages of the match, Tim David struggled to score against Rashid Khan, leading to his dismissal by Mohit Sharma in the 18th over. Tilak Varma hit a six but was caught out in the next over. In the final over, Spencer Johnson took another wicket, leaving Hardik Pandya to chase 18 runs. Pandya hit a six and a four but was eventually dismissed by Umesh Yadav, securing the win for GT.
Sai Sudharsan was named the player of the match for his 45-run innings. Mumbai Indians will face Sunrisers Hyderabad next at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium on March 27.
