Hardik Pandya played his first game as Mumbai Indians captain against Gujarat Titans on March 25. He replaced Rohit Sharma as MI skipper for the Indian Premier League (2024). With Pandya replacing one of the most successful leaders, Rohit, his moves were put under the scanner during the game..
He was slammed for not promoting himself in the batting order. However, MI’s batting coach Kieron Pollard has come out in support of the all-rounder.
Hardik didn’t open the bowling with Jasprit Bumrah, who is one of the best fast bowlers with the new ball. Hardik started the proceedings which invited critcism from Irfan Pathan, Kevin Pietersen and Sunil Gavaskar.
Although Bumrah took a wicket in the only over he bowled in the powerplay, Pollard refused to give much importance to critics.
“It is the duty of the captain to do what he thinks is right for the team. He has opened the bowling for Gujarat Titans over the last two years. He wanted to swing the new balls against Gujarat Titans and I don’t see anything wrong with what Pandya did,” Kieron Pollard said.
Hardik was also lambasted for coming in to bat at the No.7 slot instead of No.3 or 4. He batted in the top order for GT.
Pollard said that it was the management’s decision to hold back Hardik Pandya. “Hardik Pandya didn’t take that decision and it was approved by the management. The top order batted deep into the game and we had two power hitters.
“Tim David has finished games for us in the past and Hardik has been doing it over the years.
“We should have given another thought to the situation but it didn’t happen. We will discuss about it.
“But you can’t blame Hardik Pandya. Let’s put an end to Hardik made a decision. We play as a team and everyone was involved in that call,” Kieron Pollard said.
MI will play their next game against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 27 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.