Hardik Pandya’s tenure as Mumbai Indians captain has faced a rocky start, marked by consecutive defeats and mounting criticism from fans and pundits alike. However, a recent incident involving Sri Lankan cricket legend and current MI bowling coach, Lasith Malinga, during a post-match interaction after MI’s loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), has intensified the scrutiny surrounding Pandya.
Since Pandya’s return to the MI fold and his appointment as captain, discontent among fans has been palpable. This dissatisfaction was evident during MI’s inaugural match against Gujarat Titans (GT), where Pandya faced boos from spectators throughout the game.
Criticism has also been directed at Pandya’s on-field decisions and performances, drawing ire from former cricketers and analysts alike. MI’s lackluster start under Pandya’s leadership, suffering defeats in their opening two matches against GT and SRH, has only exacerbated the situation.
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Social media platforms have been abuzz with videos depicting Pandya apparently shrugging off Malinga’s attempts to embrace him after the SRH loss. In one clip, Pandya sidesteps Malinga’s hug, opting instead to shake hands with opposition players.
Does Hardik Pandya kicked Lasith Malinga? His hands, face reaction same story.
Not a good way to treat legend like Lasith Malinga. #HardikPandya #SRHvMI pic.twitter.com/Yg5a5hNRTE— Satya Prakash (@Satya_Prakash08) March 28, 2024
Another clip shows Malinga relinquishing his seat in the dugout as Pandya readied himself to bat, despite batting coach Kieron Pollard initially making room. Fans expressed dismay that Pandya didn’t intervene to prevent the senior player from vacating his spot.
Malinga Ki Hardik Ki Gattiga Adho Aindhi
Ninna Hug Kuda
Mottom Something Fishy pic.twitter.com/ToAARNW68w— Kiran (@KIRANPSPK45) March 28, 2024
This incident has further fueled the controversy surrounding Pandya’s contentious appointment as MI captain. The defeat to SRH was particularly notable for the record-breaking performance of the opposition, who posted the highest-ever IPL total of 277 for 3.
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Despite a valiant effort in the chase, Mumbai Indians fell short by 31 runs, marking their second successive loss in the tournament. Pandya’s lacklustre form with both bat and ball has only intensified scrutiny on his captaincy.
