Mumbai Indians haven’t had a good start in IPL 2024 with Hardik Pandya as their new captain. Despite replacing Rohit Sharma with Pandya, the team’s performance hasn’t improved much yet.
Mumbai Indians are at the bottom of the IPL 2024 points table, yet to win a match in the tournament. They lost their first three games: the first against Gujarat Titans by six runs, the second against Sunrisers Hyderabad by 31 runs despite scoring 277/3, and the third against an opponent where they managed only 125/9, resulting in a six-wicket loss.
Rift Between Hardik Pandya And Rohit Sharma?
In addition to their losses, Mumbai Indians are facing attention for reported unrest within their dressing room. With Hardik Pandya taking over as captain from Rohit Sharma, reports suggest a division among players, with some supporting the new captain and others backing the former one.
Despite the speculation surrounding internal discord, Mumbai Indians bowler Akash Madhwal has stressed that the team environment remains positive. He mentioned that both Hardik Pandya and Rohit Sharma have been supportive figures. Speaking to the media following the loss to Rajasthan Royals, Madhwal said:
“The team environment is excellent. Both (Rohit and Hardik) are supportive, and I spoke to Hardik and Rohit in the practice match. (Jasprit) Bumrah bhai was also there. We should do better in the coming games.”
Madhwal also addressed his absence from the playing eleven in the first two matches. Despite making a strong impression last season with 14 wickets in eight games, including a remarkable 5 for 5 against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), the Mumbai Indians team management opted not to include him initially. However, he was brought back for the third game and immediately made an impact, claiming three wickets for just 20 runs in his four overs. He said:
“The combinations for the first two games were good in their own right, as world-class bowlers constantly compete for a place in the team,”
