Mumbai Indians stirred up controversy amongst their followers final yr with the choice to nominate Hardik Pandya because the group’s new captain. Hardik was roped in by the franchise from Gujarat Titans, marking his comeback to MI after two years. Weeks after his return, MI confirmed Hardik’s appointment because the facet’s skipper because the all-rounder changed long-term captain Rohit Sharma, who steered the franchise to report 5 IPL titles.
Rohit Sharma (L) was eliminated as MI captain forward of IPL 2024, with Hardik Pandya (R) taking his place(File)
The resolution from Mumbai Indians drew polar-opposite reactions; whereas many noticed it as a transfer for the longer term, Rohit Sharma’s admirers turned towards the franchise. The scenario turned worse when Rohit’s spouse, Ritika Sajdeh, added to the speculations over Rohit’s removing as captain after she quashed MI coach Mark Boucher’s rationalization for a similar on an Instagram put up.
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Now, in a video for host broadcasters Star Sports, former India all-rounder and Rohit’s ex-MI teammate Yuvraj Singh has made a serious comment on the change in captaincy, too. Yuvraj opined that MI ought to have retained Rohit as skipper even when they needed to carry Hardik again, stressing that it could have smoothened the transition section.
“Rohit Sharma is a five-time IPL winner as captain. Removing him is a big decision. I would’ve probably got in something, for example Hardik. But I would have given Rohit another season and let Hardik be vice-captain, and see how the whole franchise worked,” Yuvraj mentioned.
“But clearly, I perceive from the franchise perspective, that they should see the longer term. But once more, Rohit continues to be the Indian captain, and he is taking part in very well. So, it is a large resolution.
“Everybody has a opinion, but franchise has to take the right call for the futgure. I guess it was in that interest, and I hope they do well,” mentioned Yuvraj.
Pressure on Hardik
The all-rounder could have led the Gujarat Titans to an IPL title of their maiden season in 2022, and additional steered the facet to a different ultimate final yr, however Yuvraj believes that captaining the Mumbai Indians is a distinct stress altogether.
“In terms of talent, yes, he has great talent. Being captain of Gujarat is different from being a Mumbai captain. Expectations are a lot and MI are one of the top sides. You have to carry the pressure. I’m sure he will have good support around him. Hopefully, they do well,” the World Cup-winning former all-rounder acknowledged.
Source: www.hindustantimes.com
