Hardik Pandya’s captaincy debut for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2024 stirred controversy as he made an unconventional fielding call during a crucial moment against Gujarat Titans. In a surprising move, Pandya directed former skipper Rohit Sharma to the field outside the 30-yard circle during the last over of the Titans’ innings.
This decision drew ire from Mumbai Indians supporters and intensified the spotlight on Pandya’s leadership style. Replacing Rohit Sharma as captain, Pandya faced immense scrutiny from fans and pundits alike. His decision to alter the field positioning, particularly involving Rohit, sparked a wave of criticism.
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Rohit Sharma, typically stationed within the inner circle, had to relocate to the boundary ropes as instructed by Pandya. The unusual sight of the Indian cricketing stalwart adjusting to this change left many fans disconcerted. The incident unfolded during the IPL clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, where Pandya’s actions were met with vocal disapproval from the audience.
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The scenario attracted attention not only from spectators but also from commentators, including Kevin Pietersen, who remarked on the rare instance of an Indian player facing such vocal dissent.
However, Pandya’s captaincy debut was marred by more than just tactical decisions. Despite a promising partnership between Dewald Brevis and Rohit, Mumbai Indians faltered in their chase of Gujarat Titans’ target of 169 runs. Pandya himself faced criticism for his batting position and bowling choices, particularly opting to open the bowling instead of deploying the renowned Jasprit Bumrah earlier in the innings.
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Ultimately, Mumbai Indians fell short by six runs, failing to capitalize on a solid start. Pandya’s knock, ending with a crucial dismissal in the final over, compounded the team’s woes. The defeat not only raised questions about Pandya’s leadership decisions but also intensified scrutiny on Mumbai Indians’ overall strategy and performance.
ye captain like hai hi nahi.. pahla over kar raha hai when bumrah in his team.. @hardik.. you totally failed. I stopped watching and supporting mumbai India due to you
— Sushil Kumar Dwivedi (@SushilDwid) March 25, 2024
Leave Fanwar aside. He’s legend yaar !! Heartbreaking 💔 #chapri #HardikPandya
— A T E L O P H O B I C (@imXIDDI) March 25, 2024
Ego ho Gaya hai sale @hardikpandya7 ko. Charbi chadh gayi hai. People will show him his right place bhai. Neem ka patta kadwa hai hardik Pandya bhadwa hai.
— Dokkodo (@Dokkodo99) March 25, 2024
Panadya jyada ego ho gya hai pata nahi kis bat kai
— Rahul (@Rahul171254) March 25, 2024
I cant watch even a single match after 19 nov. but this reel really hurts💔
— Abhi Gupta🚩 (@shivbhaktabhay) March 25, 2024
Mat dalo yaar aise video heat pain hota hain ..#Respect4hitman
— ellyseperryfanzclub (@ellyseperryclub) March 25, 2024
