The current captaincy shift within the Mumbai Indians team, with Hardik Pandya replacing Rohit Sharma, has drawn significant discontent from fans of the former captain. The unexpected alteration in leadership before the IPL 2024 season has stirred national astonishment, leading to a wave of criticism directed at Hardik for assuming Rohit’s position.
The upcoming IPL 2024 season is set to kick off with the defending champions, Chennai Super Kings, facing Royal Challengers Bangalore in the opening match, while Mumbai Indians will confront Gujarat Titans on Sunday.
Last season, Mumbai Indians concluded in fourth place, failing to reach the final after a defeat against Gujarat Titans. With aspirations for a record-breaking sixth title, the team is counting on Hardik Pandya’s contributions.
Hardik rejoined Mumbai Indians as skipper for the forthcoming IPL edition after being released by the team ahead of the 2022 season, subsequently joining Gujarat Titans. During his stint with the Titans, he notably led the team to an IPL title in 2022 and secured a runner-up position in 2023, before returning to Mumbai Indians, where he was entrusted with the captaincy role.
In a press conference held in Mumbai as part of the team’s pre-season activities, Hardik addressed the criticism surrounding the captaincy change. Responding thoughtfully to media queries on March 18, Mumbai Indians’ captain, along with head coach Mark Boucher, acknowledged the backlash. Hardik emphasized his focus on the game and expressed gratitude to the fans for their support, while also acknowledging their right to express opinions. He reassured fans that Rohit Sharma’s support would be invaluable throughout the season. He said,
“To be honest, I respect the fans and everything but at the same time we focus on the sport and I focus on what is required”
Hardik emphasized that the transition in captaincy would not alter the team’s dynamics, as Rohit Sharma’s guidance and experience would continue to be instrumental. He expressed confidence in carrying forward the legacy established under Rohit’s leadership, with the assurance of his mentor’s guidance.
“I control the controllable, I don’t focus on which I can’t control and at the same point, we are grateful to the fans as a lot of love, fame and name come from them. They have every right to express and we respect their opinion I am very excited and going to focus on it more.
He further added that,
“It won’t be any different because he will always be there to help me out if I need his help. At the same time, his (Rohit) being the Indian captain helps me because this team has achieved all its glory under his belt. From now on, it will just be me carrying forward what he started. I know he will have his hand on my shoulder all through the season”
Watch the viral video here:
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Follow all the updates from the Press Conference on this 👇🧵
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— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) March 18, 2024
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