Mumbai Indians, under Hardik Pandya’s captaincy, faced another defeat in the IPL 2024, sparking questions about their leadership dynamics. Although Hardik holds the captain’s role, 5-time IPL winning captain, Rohit Sharma often has to step in during crucial moments, setting the field and strategizing with players. This dynamic was heavily criticized by former India cricketer Irfan Pathan who immediately called for this to be settled if MI hope to keep their IPL 2024 playoff chances alive.
Who is the real captain of Mumbai Indians?
Former India cricketer. Irfan Pathan pointed out an incident, referencing a viral video from a previous match between the Mumbai Indians and the Punjab Kings. In the clip, pacer Akash Madhwal appeared to be taking tactical cues from Rohit Sharma rather than Hardik Pandya.
“Akash Madhwal was there and there was Hardik Pandya. It was a pressure situation and Madhwal was just looking at Rohit Sharma. He was talking only to him regarding setting the field. This happens when you have that confidence ‘he is my captain, not the other guy’ “ said Irfan.
Pathan discussed the same observation during the RR vs. MI game, emphasizing the need for Hardik to assert his role. He explained that during a pressure-filled situation, Madhwal was focused solely on Rohit Sharma, which indicated that the team might still seemingly consider Rohit as their captain. Pathan believed this perception must change for Hardik to lead effectively and he has to be the one to do so.
“This needs to change and I think Hardik Pandya is capable of doing it,” he added.
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RR vs MI: Recap
Despite their struggles, the Mumbai Indians managed to reach 180 runs, thanks to solid batting from Tilak Varma and Nihal Wadhera. However, Rajasthan Royals’ Sanju Samson led his team to victory, with Yashasvi Jaiswal scoring his second IPL century, chasing the target with eight balls to spare.
How can Mumbai Indians qualify for IPL 2024 Playoffs now?
Mumbai Indians’ route to the playoffs remain uncertain after their fifth loss in eight games. MI still remain in contention for a playoff position. In a perfect scenario, MI would need to win five of their remaining six games to make it to the IPL 2024 playoffs. However, the approaching Net Run Rate (NRR) complicates matters.
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