Mumbai Indians and Indian Cricket Fans in general got to learn that Hardik Pandya is set for an extended spell on the sidelines. The 30-year-old had injured himself during the ODI World Cup 2023 game versus Bangladesh in Pune.
The all-rounder was later replaced by fast bowler Prasidh Krishna during the course of the tournament. Hardik despite being off the field has managed to grab the headlines. Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians worked out an all-cash trade deal of INR 15 Crores for the India star. Once he made his return to Mumbai Indians, the 30-year-old was made the new skipper of the franchise. The move to replace Rohit Sharma did not sit down well with the fans who voiced their support and protested on social media.
Captaincy Debate crops up again after Hardik Pandya’s injury –
Earlier on Saturday, it came to light that Hardik Pandya is set to be out of cricketing action for a long time. It was confirmed that the India star player will not be back for the T20I series set to be played against Afghanistan in early 2024.
Team India fans will have to wait for a new leader as even Suryakumar Yadav is out with a grade-two tear in his ankle. This means that the 33-year-old will also miss the series against Afghanistan.
As per a source from the Indian Cricket Board who was quoted by the Hindustan Times, said, “There is no update on Hardik’s fitness as of now and one can say there remains a big question mark of him being available before the end of IPL”
After the latest news came to light many fans are already calling for Rohit Sharma to be re-appointed as the skipper. Mumbai Indians seem to be in huge trouble as many fans are also questioning the logic behind naming a skipper despite not knowing his fitness.
During the IPL Auction 2024, the five times winners were Gerald Coetzee, Mohammad Nabi, Dilshan Madushanka, and Nuwan Thushara. Other notable buys included upcoming all-rounder Anshul Kambhoj and leg-spinner Shreyas Gopal.