In a widely circulated video on social media, newly appointed Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya was observed orchestrating field placements during the final over of Gujarat Titans’ innings in Ahmedabad on Sunday. Despite Pandya’s assertiveness, Mumbai Indians succumbed to a six-run defeat against the Gujarat Titans in their IPL 2024 opener at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
Poor thought process and short sightedness by Ambanis to make rohit play under Hardik..
The body language looks off and team doesn’t look like a family/ one unit. That’s my observation!
— Gurmeet Chadha (@connectgurmeet) March 24, 2024
The footage captured Pandya directing former captain Rohit Sharma to field in the deep, a move that seemed to surprise Sharma, who was accustomed to patrolling the infield. Pandya, animated in his quest for precision, meticulously positioned his players, including Sharma, during the crucial final over. Initially stationed within the 30-yard circle, Sharma was instructed by Pandya to retreat near the boundary rope. Subsequently, Pandya directed Sharma to adjust his position further to the right, ensuring bowler Gerald Coetzee had optimal fielders in key areas.
While such strategic maneuvering is typical of cricket captaincy, a segment of fans expressed discontent at seeing Sharma relegated to outfield duties during the closing stages of the match. Despite the criticism, Sharma demonstrated his versatility by successfully taking a catch in the deep during the 8th over, exemplifying his commitment to the team’s cause.
“In today’s match, Hardik Pandya said to Rohit Sharma to go back. It seems that Hardik Pandya is taking his role seriously. #Cricket #Captaincy #HardikPandya #RohitSharma” pic.twitter.com/JfZ0if2Z8y
— Hemant ( Sports Active ) (@hemantbhavsar86) March 25, 2024
Pandya’s return to Ahmedabad, however, was met with a lukewarm reception from the local crowd, who voiced their displeasure towards the former Gujarat Titans captain during the toss. Pandya’s journey from Gujarat to Mumbai and back had left some fans disillusioned, particularly considering his previous success with the Gujarat franchise, leading them to an IPL title in 2022 and a final appearance in 2023.
The disappointment continued for Pandya as Mumbai Indians faltered in their pursuit of victory, collapsing to a defeat after losing their last five wickets for a mere 32 runs. Questions arose regarding Pandya’s bowling changes and his decision to bat at No. 7 during the tense run chase, with former India fast bowler Irfan Pathan among those scrutinizing the captain’s tactics.
Dil se bura lagta hai yaar Hardik Rohit Sharma#MIvsGT#GTvMI #HardikPandya #IPL2024 pic.twitter.com/br09CNJ9Kt
— Shubham (@driiiiiizy) March 24, 2024
Despite the setback, Mumbai Indians displayed camaraderie as Pandya and Sharma engaged in a jovial conversation post-match. As they gear up to face SunRisers Hyderabad in their upcoming fixture, the five-time champions will be determined to rebound from their opening defeat and reclaim their winning form.
