Former India cricketer Irfan Pathan has issued a stern warning to Mumbai Indians skipper Hardik Pandya after the team’s disappointing nine-wicket loss to Rajasthan Royals in the IPL 2024 match on Monday. Pandya’s performance, both as a player and captain, has come under scrutiny once again, with concerns growing among fans and experts.
Pandya, who scored just 10 runs and conceded 37 runs in 4 overs without taking a wicket, has been criticized for his leadership decisions and lackluster form. Pathan believes that Pandya is looking for easy ways to regain his lost form and risks becoming the ‘weak link’ for his team if he continues to underperform.
“Mumbai Indians is still a very good team on paper but being managed very poorly. Especially, if Hardik Pandya as a leader lacks form, he will become a weak link for his own team,” Pathan said in a video statement. He expressed concern that Pandya’s focus on comfort and easy solutions could hinder his ability to win the respect of his teammates.
Pathan also criticized Pandya’s decision-making during the match, including his choice to bat at No. 7 despite the team losing early wickets and bowling the first over instead of experienced bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah. He emphasized the importance of Pandya earning his teammates’ respect by taking on tough tasks and not looking for shortcuts.
As Mumbai Indians continue to struggle in the IPL points table, all eyes will be on Pandya to see if he can rise to the challenge and lead his team to success in the remaining matches of the tournament.