On Wednesday (May 8), Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) hammered Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) by ten wickets in match 57 of IPL 2024. With the heavy defeat, KL Rahul-led Lucknow are at the sixth position, with 12 points, and&nbsp;now in a do-or-die situation in their remaining games. Meanwhile, LSG's loss has eliminated Hardik Pandya-led Mumbai Indians (MI) out of the IPL 2024 playoffs race.

The five-time winners MI can reach 12 points&nbsp;at best, even if they win their last few games. They currently have only four wins in a dozen encounters. With Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) looking almost certain to end the league stage as the top-two teams, SRH -- 14 points --&nbsp;and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) -- 12 points --&nbsp;are at the third and fourth spot, respectively. The fifth and sixth-ranked Delhi Capitals (DC) and LSG, respectively, face-off in the national capital next week, hence, one of them will have 13 points, at least (even if rain plays spoilsport). Thus, MI&nbsp;became the first team to be out of the playoffs race in this season.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-lsg-boss-sanjeev-goenka-fumes-after-loss-vs-srh-animated-talk-with-kl-rahul-goes-viral-watch-719529">IPL 2024: LSG boss Sanjeev Goenka fumes after loss vs SRH, animated talk with KL Rahul goes viral - Watch</a>

Talking about the SRH-LSG encounter, in Hyderabad, Rahul-led Lucknow opted to bat first and rode on Ayush Badoni's 55 not out and vice-captain Nicholas Pooran's unbeaten 48 to post 165 for 4. In reply, SRH openers Travis Head (89* off 30 balls) and Abhishek Sharma (75* off 28 balls) made a mockery of the run-chase, completing it in 9.4 overs with ten wickets in hand. MI fans were hoping for a huge favour from LSG, but Rahul-led franchise fell flat against Pat Cummins &amp; Co.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the likes of Punjab Kings (PBKS), Gujarat Titans (GT) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are also nearing elimination but all three have an outside chance to date. The trio have 8 points each with a negative Net Run Rate (NRR).

On Wednesday (May 8), Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) hammered Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) by ten wickets in match 57 of IPL 2024. With the heavy defeat, KL Rahul-led Lucknow are at the sixth position, with 12 points, and now in a do-or-die situation in their remaining games.

On Wednesday (May 8), Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) hammered Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) by ten wickets in match 57 of IPL 2024. With the heavy defeat, KL Rahul-led Lucknow are at the sixth position, with 12 points, and now in a do-or-die situation in their remaining games. Meanwhile, LSG's loss has eliminated Hardik Pandya-led Mumbai Indians (MI) out of the IPL 2024 playoffs race. The five-time winners MI can reach 12 points at best, even if they win their last few games. They currently have only four wins in a dozen encounters. With Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) looking almost certain to end the league stage as the top-two teams, SRH -- 14 points -- and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) -- 12 points -- are at the third and fourth spot, respectively. The fifth and sixth-ranked Delhi Capitals (DC) and LSG, respectively, face-off in the national capital next week, hence, one of them will have 13 points, at least (even if rain plays spoilsport). Thus, MI became the first team to be out of the playoffs race in this season. Also read: IPL 2024: LSG boss Sanjeev Goenka fumes after loss vs SRH, animated talk with KL Rahul goes viral - Watch Talking about the SRH-LSG encounter, in Hyderabad, Rahul-led Lucknow opted to bat first and rode on Ayush Badoni's 55 not out and vice-captain Nicholas Pooran's unbeaten 48 to post 165 for 4. In reply, SRH openers Travis Head (89* off 30 balls) and Abhishek Sharma (75* off 28 balls) made a mockery of the run-chase, completing it in 9.4 overs with ten wickets in hand. MI fans were hoping for a huge favour from LSG, but Rahul-led franchise fell flat against Pat Cummins & Co. Meanwhile, the likes of Punjab Kings (PBKS), Gujarat Titans (GT) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are also nearing elimination but all three have an outside chance to date. The trio have 8 points each with a negative Net Run Rate (NRR).

IPL 2024: SRH's win over LSG has led to the elimination of Mumbai Indians. Here's how

Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya has been slapped with yet another fine in the Indian Premier League (IPL) during his&nbsp;side’s&nbsp;defeat to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Tuesday (April 30). Pandya was found guilty of maintaining slow over rate during the match and&nbsp;has&nbsp;been&nbsp;fined&nbsp;$29,000.&nbsp;This&nbsp;is the second time Pandya has been found guilty of maintaining slow over rate,&nbsp;which also triggered&nbsp;a fine for the entire Mumbai Indians side.&nbsp;

<h2>Pandya fined for slow overate</h2>

"Mr Hardik Pandya, Captain, Mumbai&nbsp;Indians&nbsp;has&nbsp;been fined&nbsp;after his team maintained a slow over-rate during Match&nbsp;48 of the&nbsp;Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 against Lucknow Super Giants at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow on April 30, 2024,"&nbsp;BCCI said in a statement.

"As it was his&nbsp;team's&nbsp;second offence of the season under the&nbsp;IPL's&nbsp;Code of Conduct relating to minimum over-rate offences,&nbsp;Pandya was fined INR 24 Lac.&nbsp;The&nbsp;rest of the&nbsp;members of the Playing XI, including the Impact Player, were each individually fined&nbsp;either&nbsp;INR 6 Lac or 25 per cent of their respective match fees, whichever is lesser,"&nbsp;BCCI added.

The MI skipper&nbsp;was first fined&nbsp;on April 18 when his side beat Punjab Kings in Mullanpur.

He received a fine of $14,500 for the first occasion and was entitled to a double fine for a second offense&nbsp;which&nbsp;was&nbsp;committed&nbsp;on Tuesday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/did-impact-player-rule-led-to-rinku-singhs-ouster-from-t20-wc-squad-bcci-official-reveals-716754">Impact Player rule led to Rinku Singh’s ouster from India’s T20 WC squad? BCCI official reveals</a>

If Pandya is found guilty of repeating the offense, he could&nbsp;be banned&nbsp;for a match during the IPL 2024 season.&nbsp;

Tuesday’s&nbsp;defeat has seen MI all but out of the race for the Playoffs as they languish second from bottom. Only a better net run rate has kept MI away from the bottom spot as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)&nbsp;continue to stay&nbsp;rooted.&nbsp;

In 10 matches, MI have lost a staggering seven&nbsp;matches&nbsp;and can reach a maximum of 14 points even if they win their remaining four&nbsp;matches&nbsp;of the&nbsp;IPL 2024 league stage.&nbsp;

The five-time champions next take on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Friday (May 3) with an opportunity to keep their remote hopes of Playoffs alive.&nbsp;

Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya has been slapped with yet another fine in the Indian Premier League (IPL) during his side’s defeat to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Tuesday (April 30).

Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya has been slapped with yet another fine in the Indian Premier League (IPL) during his side’s defeat to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Tuesday (April 30). Pandya was found guilty of maintaining slow over rate during the match and has been fined $29,000. This is the second time Pandya has been found guilty of maintaining slow over rate, which also triggered a fine for the entire Mumbai Indians side. Pandya fined for slow overate "Mr Hardik Pandya, Captain, Mumbai Indians has been fined after his team maintained a slow over-rate during Match 48 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 against Lucknow Super Giants at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow on April 30, 2024," BCCI said in a statement. "As it was his team's second offence of the season under the IPL's Code of Conduct relating to minimum over-rate offences, Pandya was fined INR 24 Lac. The rest of the members of the Playing XI, including the Impact Player, were each individually fined either INR 6 Lac or 25 per cent of their respective match fees, whichever is lesser," BCCI added. The MI skipper was first fined on April 18 when his side beat Punjab Kings in Mullanpur. He received a fine of $14,500 for the first occasion and was entitled to a double fine for a second offense which was committed on Tuesday. ALSO READ | Impact Player rule led to Rinku Singh’s ouster from India’s T20 WC squad? BCCI official reveals If Pandya is found guilty of repeating the offense, he could be banned for a match during the IPL 2024 season. Tuesday’s defeat has seen MI all but out of the race for the Playoffs as they languish second from bottom. Only a better net run rate has kept MI away from the bottom spot as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) continue to stay rooted. In 10 matches, MI have lost a staggering seven matches and can reach a maximum of 14 points even if they win their remaining four matches of the IPL 2024 league stage. The five-time champions next take on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Friday (May 3) with an opportunity to keep their remote hopes of Playoffs alive.

IPL 2024: Hardik Pandya slapped with $29,000 fine for slow over rate in LSG defeat

On Tuesday (April 30), the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee announced India's 15-man squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in the West Indies and USA in June. Rohit Sharma will lead the national side while Hardik Pandya will be his deputy. Among the big names, both Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson have been included in the provisional squad, while&nbsp;KL Rahul has been left out. The likes of Rinku Singh and Shubman Gill have been named in the reserves.

BCCI shared India's squad on their official handle on X, formerly Twitter. Here is the post:

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🚨India’s squad for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 announced 🚨 
 
Let's get ready to cheer for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/jIxsYeJkYW">pic.twitter.com/jIxsYeJkYW</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1785250931166060585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Talking about the squad, Rinku Singh -- who averages a whopping 89 and strikes at&nbsp;176.23 in 15 T20Is -- and KL Rahul are the two big names to miss out. Rinku has done incredibly well in the limited chances he has got for Team India in the shortest format. However, Shivam Dube, Hardik and Ravindra Jadeja got the nod ahead of him. Dube has been in top form, both for India and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the past year and, hence, got rewarded. 
 
Meanwhile, Rahul was also in contention but missed out with Pant -- who made his return to competitive cricket during IPL 2024 -- and Samson edged past the former due to their form in the ongoing IPL season. Pant and Samson have been among runs in the 2024 edition, fourth and sixth-highest run-getter respectively, with a better strike-rate than Rahul.

The regulars such as Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mohammed Siraj, etc., have been included in the squad while Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal have also been included in the team.&nbsp;

India Squad for T20 World Cup

Rohit Sharma (c), Yashashvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav,&nbsp;Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal,&nbsp;Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.

Reserves:&nbsp;Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan

On Tuesday (April 30), the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee announced India's 15-man squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in the West Indies and USA in June.

On Tuesday (April 30), the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee announced India's 15-man squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in the West Indies and USA in June. Rohit Sharma will lead the national side while Hardik Pandya will be his deputy. Among the big names, both Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson have been included in the provisional squad, while KL Rahul has been left out. The likes of Rinku Singh and Shubman Gill have been named in the reserves. BCCI shared India's squad on their official handle on X, formerly Twitter. Here is the post: 🚨India’s squad for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 announced 🚨 Let's get ready to cheer for #TeamIndia #T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/jIxsYeJkYW — BCCI (@BCCI) April 30, 2024 × Talking about the squad, Rinku Singh -- who averages a whopping 89 and strikes at 176.23 in 15 T20Is -- and KL Rahul are the two big names to miss out. Rinku has done incredibly well in the limited chances he has got for Team India in the shortest format. However, Shivam Dube, Hardik and Ravindra Jadeja got the nod ahead of him. Dube has been in top form, both for India and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the past year and, hence, got rewarded. Meanwhile, Rahul was also in contention but missed out with Pant -- who made his return to competitive cricket during IPL 2024 -- and Samson edged past the former due to their form in the ongoing IPL season. Pant and Samson have been among runs in the 2024 edition, fourth and sixth-highest run-getter respectively, with a better strike-rate than Rahul. The regulars such as Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mohammed Siraj, etc., have been included in the squad while Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal have also been included in the team. India Squad for T20 World Cup Rohit Sharma (c), Yashashvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj. Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan

T20 World Cup 2024: India’s squad to be led by Rohit Sharma; Pant and Samson in, Rahul out

The countdown for the T20 World Cup has already started as all participant teams look to make their mark on the tournament starting on June 1. Team India&nbsp;will be no stranger to the occasion as they will walk into the T20 World Cup as one of the favourites to win the title.&nbsp;With almost a month to go for the T20 World Cup, the anticipation&nbsp;surrounding the inclusion of&nbsp;Hardik Pandya has stolen the spotlight in the Indian cricket&nbsp;fraternity&nbsp;as reports suggest he could&nbsp;be dropped&nbsp;from the squad.&nbsp;

<h2>Why is Hardik Pandya at risk of being axed?&nbsp;</h2>

Not long ago, Hardik was someone who could not be easily dropped from the T20 squad owing to his impressive performance for the Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League (IPL) in the last two seasons. Besides his on-field performance, it was his leadership ability that saw him being handed the vice-captaincy in the format.&nbsp;But now he sits on the brink of exit from the Indian side, with the likes of&nbsp;Shivam Dube and Rinku Singh waiting on the sidelines to replace him. &nbsp;

In nine IPL matches so&nbsp;far, Hardik has scored 197 runs, which includes&nbsp;10&nbsp;sixes, while averaging a mere 24.63. When compared to Shivam Mavi, Hardik is nowhere near the Chennai Super Kings finisher who has scored 350 runs in the same number of matches.&nbsp;Mavi has hit three fifties compared to Hardik’s none&nbsp;while averaging&nbsp;a massive 58.33.&nbsp;

When it comes to&nbsp;bowling, Hardik is nowhere close&nbsp;to his best and has scalped four wickets during the same time. His economy of 11.95 against opposition batters makes him more vulnerable. Considering he will be facing the same players in the international outfit in a month,&nbsp;this does not help him at all. While Mavi is not a specialist all-rounder, Hardik Pandya’s presence in the Playing XI doesn't benefit the Indian team in any way as he is no longer an asset with bat and ball.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-not-phil-salt-varun-chakaravarthy-credits-mitchell-starc-and-co-for-kkrs-dominant-win-over-dc-716550">IPL 2024: Not Phil Salt, Varun Chakaravarthy credits Mitchell Starc and Co for KKR's dominant win over DC</a>

<h2>Poor leadership in IPL 2024</h2>

Hardik’s poor performances in IPL 2024 have&nbsp;been rounded off&nbsp;by Mumbai Indians’ horrible show on the field. In his maiden season as captain of the MI side, Hardik’s side has won only three matches and lost three&nbsp;matches&nbsp;in a row at the start of the season. Considering the current scenario, the team management might be&nbsp;reluctant to rely on his services.&nbsp;

With Hardik no longer a reliable asset and the emergence of options like Shivam Mavi, Rinku Singh and Dinesh Karthik as pinch-hitters, it won’t be a surprise if Hardik&nbsp;is dropped&nbsp;from Team India.&nbsp;

The countdown for the T20 World Cup has already started as all participant teams look to make their mark on the tournament starting on June 1. Team India will be no stranger to the occasion as they will walk into the T20 World Cup as one of the favourites to win the title.

The countdown for the T20 World Cup has already started as all participant teams look to make their mark on the tournament starting on June 1. Team India will be no stranger to the occasion as they will walk into the T20 World Cup as one of the favourites to win the title. With almost a month to go for the T20 World Cup, the anticipation surrounding the inclusion of Hardik Pandya has stolen the spotlight in the Indian cricket fraternity as reports suggest he could be dropped from the squad. Why is Hardik Pandya at risk of being axed? Not long ago, Hardik was someone who could not be easily dropped from the T20 squad owing to his impressive performance for the Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League (IPL) in the last two seasons. Besides his on-field performance, it was his leadership ability that saw him being handed the vice-captaincy in the format. But now he sits on the brink of exit from the Indian side, with the likes of Shivam Dube and Rinku Singh waiting on the sidelines to replace him. In nine IPL matches so far, Hardik has scored 197 runs, which includes 10 sixes, while averaging a mere 24.63. When compared to Shivam Mavi, Hardik is nowhere near the Chennai Super Kings finisher who has scored 350 runs in the same number of matches. Mavi has hit three fifties compared to Hardik’s none while averaging a massive 58.33. When it comes to bowling, Hardik is nowhere close to his best and has scalped four wickets during the same time. His economy of 11.95 against opposition batters makes him more vulnerable. Considering he will be facing the same players in the international outfit in a month, this does not help him at all. While Mavi is not a specialist all-rounder, Hardik Pandya’s presence in the Playing XI doesn't benefit the Indian team in any way as he is no longer an asset with bat and ball. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: Not Phil Salt, Varun Chakaravarthy credits Mitchell Starc and Co for KKR's dominant win over DC Poor leadership in IPL 2024 Hardik’s poor performances in IPL 2024 have been rounded off by Mumbai Indians’ horrible show on the field. In his maiden season as captain of the MI side, Hardik’s side has won only three matches and lost three matches in a row at the start of the season. Considering the current scenario, the team management might be reluctant to rely on his services. With Hardik no longer a reliable asset and the emergence of options like Shivam Mavi, Rinku Singh and Dinesh Karthik as pinch-hitters, it won’t be a surprise if Hardik is dropped from Team India.

Decoding Hardik Pandya's IPL 2024 performance and why he might be dropped from T20 WC

The Indian men’s team selection panel led by Ajit Agarkar will have a tough decision in hand to choose the team for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies. Ahead of the team selection, one of the reports has suggested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering dropping Hardik Pandya from the Indian squad and instead naming Rishabh Pant as the&nbsp;vice-captain. India will try to end their 17-year wait for the T20 World Cup victory this year as Rohit Sharma and Co. aim to end their 11-year wait for an ICC trophy.

<h2>Pant instead of&nbsp;Pandya in T20 World Cup?</h2>

According to Cricbuzz, the selectors&nbsp;are strongly considering&nbsp;Pant as an alternative for Pandya in the deputy's role. While the selectors panel will not consider Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 as the performance matrix to choose the team, they still reckon that Pant will be a better choice to be Rohit’s deputy. Pandya’s performance&nbsp;in the IPL 2024 is also a&nbsp;major&nbsp;concern for the selectors as he struggled with the ball.

Bringing Pant into the Indian side will help team India resolve two issues&nbsp;including&nbsp;the&nbsp; wicketkeeper&nbsp;and pinch-hitter’s role.&nbsp;Alongside,&nbsp;Dinesh Karthik, Sanju Samson and KL Rahul, Pant is one of the prominent options to play as a wicketkeeper. If Pant does return to the Indian side, it will be his first match for the national side since December 2022, when he represented India against Bangladesh in the Test series.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-virat-kohli-hilariously-interrupts-shubman-gills-captaincy-during-rcbs-big-win-over-gt-watch-716171">IPL 2024: Virat Kohli hilariously interrupts Shubman Gill's captaincy during RCB's big win over GT - Watch</a>

Ahead of selection, the panel is also keeping tabs on other departments&nbsp;with&nbsp;players like Shubman Gill and Mohammed Siraj on the brink of getting dropped.&nbsp;While form is not an issue for them getting dropped,&nbsp;it is competition for places that&nbsp;could force Gill and Siraj to sit out.

For now,&nbsp;the likes of&nbsp;Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra&nbsp;Jadeja,&nbsp;remain the only names assured of a place in the team.

The Indian men’s team selection panel led by Ajit Agarkar will have a tough decision in hand to choose the team for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies.

The Indian men’s team selection panel led by Ajit Agarkar will have a tough decision in hand to choose the team for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies. Ahead of the team selection, one of the reports has suggested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering dropping Hardik Pandya from the Indian squad and instead naming Rishabh Pant as the vice-captain. India will try to end their 17-year wait for the T20 World Cup victory this year as Rohit Sharma and Co. aim to end their 11-year wait for an ICC trophy. Pant instead of Pandya in T20 World Cup? According to Cricbuzz, the selectors are strongly considering Pant as an alternative for Pandya in the deputy's role. While the selectors panel will not consider Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 as the performance matrix to choose the team, they still reckon that Pant will be a better choice to be Rohit’s deputy. Pandya’s performance in the IPL 2024 is also a major concern for the selectors as he struggled with the ball. Bringing Pant into the Indian side will help team India resolve two issues including the wicketkeeper and pinch-hitter’s role. Alongside, Dinesh Karthik, Sanju Samson and KL Rahul, Pant is one of the prominent options to play as a wicketkeeper. If Pant does return to the Indian side, it will be his first match for the national side since December 2022, when he represented India against Bangladesh in the Test series. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: Virat Kohli hilariously interrupts Shubman Gill's captaincy during RCB's big win over GT - Watch Ahead of selection, the panel is also keeping tabs on other departments with players like Shubman Gill and Mohammed Siraj on the brink of getting dropped. While form is not an issue for them getting dropped, it is competition for places that could force Gill and Siraj to sit out. For now, the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja, remain the only names assured of a place in the team.

T20 World Cup 2024: Rishabh Pant to be considered for vice-captaincy ahead of Hardik Pandya - Report

Mumbai Indians (MI) skipper Hardik Pandya has blamed the loss against Delhi Capitals (DC) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 on April 27 on 'lack of intent shown by Tilak Varma' in the middle overs. Notably, Tilak was MI's highest scorer with 63 off 32 before being run out on the first ball of the last over in a chase of 258.

"Axar bowling to a left-hander [Tilak], the better option could have been to go after him," Hardik said after the game. "I think it was just a little game awareness that we missed out. At the end of the day, that cost us the game," said Pandya after the 10-run loss.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-lsg-skipper-kl-rahul-conceded-being-late-to-bring-on-ravi-bishnoi-after-loss-vs-rajasthan-royals-715816">IPL 2024: LSG skipper KL Rahul conceded being 'late to bring on Ravi Bishnoi' after loss vs Rajasthan Royals</a>

Hardik's comments came on the back of left-hand batter Tilak's slow start during which he scored 10 off 10 balls, mostly facing the left-arm spin duo of Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel - a favourable match-up in the format. Tilak eventually broke the shackles by sending Axar for 10 runs on the last two balls of his second over - which proved to be his last in the match.

"The way the games are going and how the bowlers are under pressure throughout the competition, we backed ourselves to do it, the self-belief [was there]," Hardik said about MI's mindset on chasing the total.&nbsp;

"But if I have to pinpoint, a couple overs in the middle, we could've taken some extra chances," he added.

With the loss, MI's sixth in nine games, it has now become almost confirmed that the five-time champions won't be able qualify for the playoff in their first season under skipper Pandya.&nbsp;

DC, on the other hand, are having a bit of turnaround with five wins and same number of losses in 10 games. They currently are fifth on the 10-team points table.

Mumbai Indians (MI) skipper Hardik Pandya has blamed the loss against Delhi Capitals (DC) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 on April 27 on 'lack of intent shown by Tilak Varma' in the middle overs.

Mumbai Indians (MI) skipper Hardik Pandya has blamed the loss against Delhi Capitals (DC) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 on April 27 on 'lack of intent shown by Tilak Varma' in the middle overs. Notably, Tilak was MI's highest scorer with 63 off 32 before being run out on the first ball of the last over in a chase of 258. "Axar bowling to a left-hander [Tilak], the better option could have been to go after him," Hardik said after the game. "I think it was just a little game awareness that we missed out. At the end of the day, that cost us the game," said Pandya after the 10-run loss. Also Read: IPL 2024: LSG skipper KL Rahul conceded being 'late to bring on Ravi Bishnoi' after loss vs Rajasthan Royals Hardik's comments came on the back of left-hand batter Tilak's slow start during which he scored 10 off 10 balls, mostly facing the left-arm spin duo of Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel - a favourable match-up in the format. Tilak eventually broke the shackles by sending Axar for 10 runs on the last two balls of his second over - which proved to be his last in the match. "The way the games are going and how the bowlers are under pressure throughout the competition, we backed ourselves to do it, the self-belief [was there]," Hardik said about MI's mindset on chasing the total. "But if I have to pinpoint, a couple overs in the middle, we could've taken some extra chances," he added. With the loss, MI's sixth in nine games, it has now become almost confirmed that the five-time champions won't be able qualify for the playoff in their first season under skipper Pandya. DC, on the other hand, are having a bit of turnaround with five wins and same number of losses in 10 games. They currently are fifth on the 10-team points table.

IPL 2024: MI's Hardik Pandya blames loss vs DC on Tilak Varma's 'lack of intent' despite scoring 32-ball 63

Former India bowler and commentator Irfan Pathan&nbsp;has taken a dig at the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for giving special treatment to Hardik Pandya as they prepare&nbsp;for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the West Indies and&nbsp;the USA. Despite Pandya struggling to put together a neat performance as the captain of Mumbai Indians in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) he is still expected&nbsp;to board the flight for the T20 World Cup. According to Pathan, he should&nbsp;be treated&nbsp;as every other player in the Indian squad by the BCCI.&nbsp;

<h2>Irfan takes dig at&nbsp;BCCI</h2>

"What I feel about Hardik Pandya is that Indian cricket needs to&nbsp;make it clear&nbsp;that they should not give him&nbsp;that&nbsp;much priority as they have given him so far because we still&nbsp;haven't&nbsp;won the World Cup.&nbsp;And if you think you are a primary all-rounder, you need to make that kind of an impact at the international level. As far as the all-rounder is&nbsp;concerned&nbsp;he&nbsp;hasn't&nbsp;made that impact at the international level, we&nbsp;are only thinking about the potential,”&nbsp;Irfan said while speaking on Star Sports.&nbsp;

Hardik is one of the first names to be heading to the USA with the Indian team during the T20 World Cup&nbsp;which&nbsp;starts on June 1. However, considering his poor form as captain&nbsp;Hardik would be&nbsp;under pressure,&nbsp;but&nbsp;he is not feeling the heat.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-crickets-turning-into-baseball-sam-curran-reflects-on-pbks-record-chase-at-eden-gardens-715596">IPL 2024: ‘Cricket’s turning into baseball’ – Sam Curran reflects on PBKS’ record chase at Eden Gardens</a>

<h2>Is Hardik getting VIP treatment despite missing Tests?</h2>

Considering&nbsp;BCCI’s&nbsp;policy to ask players to play domestic cricket on mandate, Hardik has frequently skipped first-class cricket and avoided playing in&nbsp;Test&nbsp;format. Despite this, he has not been penalised by BCCI. Hardik last played for India in Test format in September&nbsp;2018&nbsp;while his last Ranji Trophy match came in December 2018 when he represented Baroda against Mumbai.&nbsp;

With players like Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer getting omitted from the central contract by BCCI, Hardik still retained his place.&nbsp;

Former India bowler and commentator Irfan Pathan has taken a dig at the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for giving special treatment to Hardik Pandya as they prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA.

Former India bowler and commentator Irfan Pathan has taken a dig at the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for giving special treatment to Hardik Pandya as they prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA. Despite Pandya struggling to put together a neat performance as the captain of Mumbai Indians in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) he is still expected to board the flight for the T20 World Cup. According to Pathan, he should be treated as every other player in the Indian squad by the BCCI. Irfan takes dig at BCCI "What I feel about Hardik Pandya is that Indian cricket needs to make it clear that they should not give him that much priority as they have given him so far because we still haven't won the World Cup. And if you think you are a primary all-rounder, you need to make that kind of an impact at the international level. As far as the all-rounder is concerned he hasn't made that impact at the international level, we are only thinking about the potential,” Irfan said while speaking on Star Sports. Hardik is one of the first names to be heading to the USA with the Indian team during the T20 World Cup which starts on June 1. However, considering his poor form as captain Hardik would be under pressure, but he is not feeling the heat. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: ‘Cricket’s turning into baseball’ – Sam Curran reflects on PBKS’ record chase at Eden Gardens Is Hardik getting VIP treatment despite missing Tests? Considering BCCI’s policy to ask players to play domestic cricket on mandate, Hardik has frequently skipped first-class cricket and avoided playing in Test format. Despite this, he has not been penalised by BCCI. Hardik last played for India in Test format in September 2018 while his last Ranji Trophy match came in December 2018 when he represented Baroda against Mumbai. With players like Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer getting omitted from the central contract by BCCI, Hardik still retained his place.

'Shouldn't give him that much priority': Former pacer blasts Hardik Pandya's 'VIP' treatment by BCCI

With the IPL 2024 entering the second half, Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians – two star-studded teams will face off in their second leg this season at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on Saturday (April 27).

With the IPL 2024 entering the second half, Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians – two star-studded teams will face off in their second leg this season at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on Saturday (April 27). Although both teams sit at the bottom half of the points table, hosts Delhi are placed slightly better with eight points from nine contested matches. The travelling MI team is ninth on the sheet with just three wins from eight games. Here is the match preview and result prediction of the DC vs MI game in IPL 2024. Match Preview Delhi will take a lot of confidence from the win in their last league game against Gujarat Titans at home. Jake Fraser’s inclusion has boosted their batting line-up, with India’s Abishek Porel delivering with the bat at the top. Although David Warner's form is a worry for the home side, trust in Captain Rishabh Pant and finisher Tristan Stubbs to do their jobs well against the touring MI side is reaping rewards. However, the bowling department continues to hold the key for Delhi, with Khaleel Ahmed and Kuldeep Yadav leading the wickets tally. While Mukesh Kumar’s presence in the pace attack makes it look stronger, Rasikh Salam’s emergence, mainly after his exploits in the last game against GT, will act as a bonus for the hosts. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: Jonny Bairstow and Co script history, register highest-ever successful run chase against KKR Above all, Axar Patel’s performance with both bat and ball keeps Delhi in the contention for the playoffs. Meanwhile, the travelling Mumbai Indians are struggling to find momentum this season. Although their batting is somewhat sorted, with the top and middle order clicking even in crisis, questions around Captain Hardik Pandya’s form, both as a player and cricketer, continue to make headlines. However, the Jasprit Bumrah-led bowling attack has lagged in IPL 2024 despite the ace India seamer in top-notch form this season with the new and the old ball. Though his partner Gerald Coetzee has impressed everyone, in bits and pieces, the onus would fall on how the spin attack fares in Delhi. Head-to-Head Mumbai Indians lead Delhi Capitals 19-15 in head-to-head tally in IPL. Result Prediction Delhi could be high on confidence after a win at home in their last league match, the touring Mumbai side will enter the contest as favourites. Predicted Playing XIs of both teams – Delhi Capitals - Prithvi Shaw, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Abishek Porel, Shai Hope, Rishabh Pant (c/wk), Tristan Stubbs, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Anrich Nortje/Jhye Richardson, Khaleel Ahmed and Mukesh Kumar Mumbai Indians - Ishan Kishan (wk), Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya (c), Tim David, Nehal Wadhera, Mohammad Nabi, Gerald Coetzee, Piyush Chawla and Jasprit Bumrah

IPL 2024, Match 43, Delhi Capitals vs Mumbai Indians – Match preview and result prediction

Former Pakistan cricketer Wasim Akram has come out in support of Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya as criticism mounts against the all-rounder. Ever since Pandya switched allegiances and returned to MI from Gujarat Titans, he has been subjected to intense scrutiny from fans and pundits alike.&nbsp;

A section of fans siding with Rohit Sharma have booed, jeered and hurled derogatory remarks against Pandya. Reflecting on the development, Akram said the fans needed to "calm down" as they were not doing any favours to the franchise by booing the captain - one of the most important member&nbsp;of a cricket team

"This is the problem in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. We never forget. We tell our kids that when Pandya's kid is born, you have to remind him why he became captain 20 years ago. We don't move on," Wasim Akram told&nbsp;Sportskeeda.

"I think fans need to be a little calm. At the end of the day, he is your player. He plays for Mumbai Indians, and he is the one who can make you win. They still can qualify for the IPL 2024 playoffs. There is no point booing your own player. You can criticize a little bit, but move on," Akram concluded.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-poor-captaincy-from-hardik-pandya-will-cost-mi-playoffs-spot-feels-former-indian-batter-714217">Also read | IPL 2024: Poor captaincy from Hardik Pandya will cost MI playoffs spot, feels former Indian batter</a>

<h2>Pietersen supports Pandya&nbsp;</h2>

Akram is not the first overseas former player to come out in Pandya's support. Earlier this month, ex-England batter Kevin Pietersen&nbsp;urged the Indian fans to stop the booing, especially with the T20 World Cup on the horizon.

"It's not just affects you, it affects your family. And that's the fear for what's happening for me with Hardik at the moment is that this is going to hurt him for a very, very long time," Pietersen told Star Sports.

"When he finishes his Indian career, when he finishes playing cricket, it's still going to hurt him and that's why something drastic has to be done," he added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gt-vs-mi-ipl-2024-hardik-pandya-not-welcomed-by-ahmedabad-fans-on-return-booed-during-toss-watch-703946">Also read | GT vs MI, IPL 2024: Hardik Pandya not welcomed by Ahmedabad fans on return, booed during toss</a>

Pandya, the captain, has looked a pale shadow of his former self. As the GT captain, the all-rounder led the franchise to consecutive finals while winning the coveted trophy in the first attempt. However, with MI, it appears that the five-time champions may not qualify for the playoffs. On an individual level, Pandya has not made any impact with bat and ball, which suggests that the constant jeering may have got to him.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Pakistan cricketer Wasim Akram has come out in support of Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya as criticism mounts against the all-rounder. Ever since Pandya switched allegiances and returned to MI from Gujarat Titans, he has been subjected to intense scrutiny from fans and pundits alike.

Former Pakistan cricketer Wasim Akram has come out in support of Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya as criticism mounts against the all-rounder. Ever since Pandya switched allegiances and returned to MI from Gujarat Titans, he has been subjected to intense scrutiny from fans and pundits alike. A section of fans siding with Rohit Sharma have booed, jeered and hurled derogatory remarks against Pandya. Reflecting on the development, Akram said the fans needed to "calm down" as they were not doing any favours to the franchise by booing the captain - one of the most important member of a cricket team "This is the problem in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. We never forget. We tell our kids that when Pandya's kid is born, you have to remind him why he became captain 20 years ago. We don't move on," Wasim Akram told Sportskeeda. "I think fans need to be a little calm. At the end of the day, he is your player. He plays for Mumbai Indians, and he is the one who can make you win. They still can qualify for the IPL 2024 playoffs. There is no point booing your own player. You can criticize a little bit, but move on," Akram concluded. Also read | IPL 2024: Poor captaincy from Hardik Pandya will cost MI playoffs spot, feels former Indian batter Pietersen supports Pandya Akram is not the first overseas former player to come out in Pandya's support. Earlier this month, ex-England batter Kevin Pietersen urged the Indian fans to stop the booing, especially with the T20 World Cup on the horizon. "It's not just affects you, it affects your family. And that's the fear for what's happening for me with Hardik at the moment is that this is going to hurt him for a very, very long time," Pietersen told Star Sports. "When he finishes his Indian career, when he finishes playing cricket, it's still going to hurt him and that's why something drastic has to be done," he added. Also read | GT vs MI, IPL 2024: Hardik Pandya not welcomed by Ahmedabad fans on return, booed during toss Pandya, the captain, has looked a pale shadow of his former self. As the GT captain, the all-rounder led the franchise to consecutive finals while winning the coveted trophy in the first attempt. However, with MI, it appears that the five-time champions may not qualify for the playoffs. On an individual level, Pandya has not made any impact with bat and ball, which suggests that the constant jeering may have got to him. (With inputs from agencies)

'The problem in India...': Wasim Akram on criticism levelled against MI captain Hardik Pandya

India’s 2024 T20 World Cup squad selection date is nearing, and everyone, from fans to former cricketers – Irfan Pathan and Ambati Rayudu, is busy naming their final 15 for the marquee event starting June 1. While the onus remains on picking the most balanced yet attacking squad, Pathan and Rayudu have had their say on Hardik Pandya’s selection in the Indian Team.

Speaking of Irfan Pathan’s final 15 for the 20-team tournament in the Caribbean and the USA, Pandya finds a place in the team, but under one condition - he will have to contribute with his bowling.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the newly-appointed Mumbai Indians skipper has had a torrid run as a player and captain in IPL 2024 since taking over the captaincy from Rohit Sharma. In eight contested matches, Pandya has scored just 151 runs at 142.45 and picked&nbsp;mere four wickets in 17 overs bowled across all games. His economy over ten (10.94) hasn’t helped the cause either, as Mumbai continues to struggle on the points table, with three wins and five losses thus far. 
 
While Irfan picked just one keeper in Rishabh Pant, with Sanju Samson ahead of KL Rahul and Dinesh Karthik in the pecking order (as an option), Pathan named CSK star performer Shivam Dube as a spare all-rounder. Opting against naming both spin-bowling all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel, Pathan’s final 15 include just three seamers, with Kuldeep Yadav playing as the lone spinner.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-dont-go-to-poor-countries-sehwags-absurd-remarks-on-indians-not-playing-in-leagues-outside-of-ipl-714555">'We don’t go to poor countries’ – Sehwag's absurd remarks on Indians not playing in leagues outside of IPL</a>

After naming his first 13, Pathan picked four players with two leg-spinners and two top-order batters as options to name from.

<h2>Rayudu’s final 15 includes surprise picks</h2>

Pathan's co-panel expert at Star Sports for IPL 2024, Ambati Rayudu, has some surprising inclusions in his final 15 for the 2024 T20 World Cup. Apart from the regular first-team players Rohit, Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav and Bumrah, Rayudu’s XI includes only two all-rounders – Shivam Dube and Ravindra Jadeja.&nbsp;

Rayudu has opted against naming Hardik Pandya in his final squad but picked two uncapped players in Riyan Parag and this year’s find-of-the-season Mayank Yadav.&nbsp;

While both Pathan and Rayudu have named an almost similar pace attack, including Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh, Rayudu went ahead with Yuzvendra Chahal as Kuldeep’s partner at the 20-team-tournament.

Ambati Rayudu's India squad for T20 World Cup: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Riyan Parag, Rinku Singh, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh and Mayank Yadav

India’s 2024 T20 World Cup squad selection date is nearing, and everyone, from fans to former cricketers – Irfan Pathan and Ambati Rayudu, is busy naming their final 15 for the marquee event starting June 1.

India’s 2024 T20 World Cup squad selection date is nearing, and everyone, from fans to former cricketers – Irfan Pathan and Ambati Rayudu, is busy naming their final 15 for the marquee event starting June 1. While the onus remains on picking the most balanced yet attacking squad, Pathan and Rayudu have had their say on Hardik Pandya’s selection in the Indian Team. Speaking of Irfan Pathan’s final 15 for the 20-team tournament in the Caribbean and the USA, Pandya finds a place in the team, but under one condition - he will have to contribute with his bowling. Meanwhile, the newly-appointed Mumbai Indians skipper has had a torrid run as a player and captain in IPL 2024 since taking over the captaincy from Rohit Sharma. In eight contested matches, Pandya has scored just 151 runs at 142.45 and picked mere four wickets in 17 overs bowled across all games. His economy over ten (10.94) hasn’t helped the cause either, as Mumbai continues to struggle on the points table, with three wins and five losses thus far. While Irfan picked just one keeper in Rishabh Pant, with Sanju Samson ahead of KL Rahul and Dinesh Karthik in the pecking order (as an option), Pathan named CSK star performer Shivam Dube as a spare all-rounder. Opting against naming both spin-bowling all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel, Pathan’s final 15 include just three seamers, with Kuldeep Yadav playing as the lone spinner. ALSO READ: 'We don’t go to poor countries’ – Sehwag's absurd remarks on Indians not playing in leagues outside of IPL After naming his first 13, Pathan picked four players with two leg-spinners and two top-order batters as options to name from. Rayudu’s final 15 includes surprise picks Pathan's co-panel expert at Star Sports for IPL 2024, Ambati Rayudu, has some surprising inclusions in his final 15 for the 2024 T20 World Cup. Apart from the regular first-team players Rohit, Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav and Bumrah, Rayudu’s XI includes only two all-rounders – Shivam Dube and Ravindra Jadeja. Rayudu has opted against naming Hardik Pandya in his final squad but picked two uncapped players in Riyan Parag and this year’s find-of-the-season Mayank Yadav. While both Pathan and Rayudu have named an almost similar pace attack, including Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh, Rayudu went ahead with Yuzvendra Chahal as Kuldeep’s partner at the 20-team-tournament. Ambati Rayudu's India squad for T20 World Cup: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Riyan Parag, Rinku Singh, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh and Mayank Yadav

2024 T20 World Cup: Pandya’s selection in question as Rayudu, Irfan pick their 15-man India squads

Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag shared his playing XI for India for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee is set to pick India's T20 WC squad by end of this month or&nbsp;by May 1 (which is the cut-off date for all participating teams) as the mega event kicks off soon after IPL 2024, on June 1 in West Indies and USA. Sehwag picked his playing XI, with some glaring omissions.

Speaking on Club Praire Podcast alongside former Aussie cricketer Adam Gilchrist, Sehwag's playing XI didn't comprise Hardik Pandya and Sanju Samson. The legendary Indian opener opted between Shivam Dube or Rinku Singh as the lower middle order batter whereas also snubbed Arshdeep Singh. Instead of the Punjab Kings (PBKS) pacer, the ex-Indian opener picked Sandeep Sharma -- who has been in fine form for Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the ongoing IPL 2024 edition. In match 38, on Monday (April 22), Sandeep starred in RR's nine-wicket win over Mumbai Indians (MI), in Jaipur, courtesy of a brilliant 5 for 18.&nbsp;

Virender Sehwag's Playing XI for T20 World Cup

Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Rinku Singh or Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Sandeep Sharma.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-we-needed-to-be-braver-lsg-captain-rahul-explains-reason-behind-promoting-stoinis-vs-csk-714538">IPL 2024: 'We needed to be braver' - LSG captain Rahul explains reason behind promoting Stoinis vs CSK</a>

Speaking on Hardik, Sehwag mentioned that the star all-rounder will make it to India's final squad, however, opted against including him in the final XI due to his poor run in IPL 2024. Hardik has been unimpressive as a leader, for MI, and not created much impact with both bat and ball. Further, Sehwag's spin bowling unit comprised Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja with no room for Axar Patel and Yuzvendra Chahal. Both have been impressive in IPL 2024.

As per reports, India's T20 WC squad is expected to be announced around April 28.&nbsp;

Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag shared his playing XI for India for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee is set to pick India's T20 WC squad by end of this month or by May 1 (which is the cut-off date for all participating teams) as the mega event kicks off soon after IPL 2024, on June 1 in West Indies and USA.

Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag shared his playing XI for India for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee is set to pick India's T20 WC squad by end of this month or by May 1 (which is the cut-off date for all participating teams) as the mega event kicks off soon after IPL 2024, on June 1 in West Indies and USA. Sehwag picked his playing XI, with some glaring omissions. Speaking on Club Praire Podcast alongside former Aussie cricketer Adam Gilchrist, Sehwag's playing XI didn't comprise Hardik Pandya and Sanju Samson. The legendary Indian opener opted between Shivam Dube or Rinku Singh as the lower middle order batter whereas also snubbed Arshdeep Singh. Instead of the Punjab Kings (PBKS) pacer, the ex-Indian opener picked Sandeep Sharma -- who has been in fine form for Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the ongoing IPL 2024 edition. In match 38, on Monday (April 22), Sandeep starred in RR's nine-wicket win over Mumbai Indians (MI), in Jaipur, courtesy of a brilliant 5 for 18. Virender Sehwag's Playing XI for T20 World Cup Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Rinku Singh or Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Sandeep Sharma. Also read: IPL 2024: 'We needed to be braver' - LSG captain Rahul explains reason behind promoting Stoinis vs CSK Speaking on Hardik, Sehwag mentioned that the star all-rounder will make it to India's final squad, however, opted against including him in the final XI due to his poor run in IPL 2024. Hardik has been unimpressive as a leader, for MI, and not created much impact with both bat and ball. Further, Sehwag's spin bowling unit comprised Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja with no room for Axar Patel and Yuzvendra Chahal. Both have been impressive in IPL 2024. As per reports, India's T20 WC squad is expected to be announced around April 28.

T20 World Cup: No Hardik Pandya and Sanju Samson as Virender Sehwag names his playing XI for India

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batter Ambati Rayudu feels Shivam Dube and Hardik Pandya are not competing for the same spot in the T20 World Cup. India's T20 WC squad is set to be announced soon and all eyes are on the all-rounder's department. It remains to be seen if India opt for Dube, who was been in good form both in national colours and for CSK, or if Hardik will make a national comeback since the 2023 ODI World Cup.

While many former cricketers and experts feel that only one among Dube and Hardik will make it to India's squad, Rayudu feels they aren't competing with each other for a slot. Talking about Dube, the left-hander scored a brisk 27-ball 66 for CSK in their match against&nbsp;Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) which the former lost by&nbsp;six wickets&nbsp;after putting a mammoth&nbsp;210/4 on the board,&nbsp;courtesy of captain Ruturaj Gaikwad's 108*, in match 39 of IPL 2024 on Tuesday (April 23). Dube has so far amassed 311 runs, with three fifties, in eight games at a strike-rate of 169.94. Meanwhile, Hardik has struggled to make an impact with bat and ball -- claiming only four wickets and looking mostly rusty with the bat (scoring 151 runs at 21.57 and a strike rate of 142.45.&nbsp;

Speaking on ESPNCricinfo, Rayudu explained how Dube plays an entirely different role to that of Hardik in India colours.&nbsp;

<h2>'I feel Hardik and Jadeja have the finisher's role in the Indian team'</h2>

He stated, "Both of them are not competing for the same spot. Hardik and Jadeja are finishers in the Indian team, and Dube is the kind of batter who comes in at No. 4 or 5. When the spinners are operating and conditions are slow, he can hit boundaries and accelerate to change the game. But between overs 16 and 20, Dube's strike rate isn't that high, he fails to hit that many runs. So I feel Hardik and Jadeja have that role in the Indian team."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-still-hurts-me-dc-spinner-kuldeep-yadav-rues-lack-of-experience-while-recalling-his-kkr-days-714464">IPL 2024: 'Still hurts me' - DC spinner Kuldeep Yadav rues lack of experience while recalling his KKR days</a>

At present, Dube looks like a certainty in India's T20 WC squad whereas questions are being raised on Hardik given the Mumbai Indians (MI) captain's struggle&nbsp;with both bat and ball and as a leader in the ongoing IPL season.&nbsp;

Talking about the CSK-LSG match, Chennai were asked to bat first and soon reduced to 49-2 before Gaikwad-Dube's 104-run fourth-wicket stand bailed them out and took the team score to 210-4. In reply, Lucknow won the high-scoring thriller owing to Marcus Stoinis' splendid 124 not out, laced with 13 fours and 6 sixes at 196.83.

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batter Ambati Rayudu feels Shivam Dube and Hardik Pandya are not competing for the same spot in the T20 World Cup. India's T20 WC squad is set to be announced soon and all eyes are on the all-rounder's department.

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batter Ambati Rayudu feels Shivam Dube and Hardik Pandya are not competing for the same spot in the T20 World Cup. India's T20 WC squad is set to be announced soon and all eyes are on the all-rounder's department. It remains to be seen if India opt for Dube, who was been in good form both in national colours and for CSK, or if Hardik will make a national comeback since the 2023 ODI World Cup. While many former cricketers and experts feel that only one among Dube and Hardik will make it to India's squad, Rayudu feels they aren't competing with each other for a slot. Talking about Dube, the left-hander scored a brisk 27-ball 66 for CSK in their match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) which the former lost by six wickets after putting a mammoth 210/4 on the board, courtesy of captain Ruturaj Gaikwad's 108*, in match 39 of IPL 2024 on Tuesday (April 23). Dube has so far amassed 311 runs, with three fifties, in eight games at a strike-rate of 169.94. Meanwhile, Hardik has struggled to make an impact with bat and ball -- claiming only four wickets and looking mostly rusty with the bat (scoring 151 runs at 21.57 and a strike rate of 142.45. Speaking on ESPNCricinfo, Rayudu explained how Dube plays an entirely different role to that of Hardik in India colours. 'I feel Hardik and Jadeja have the finisher's role in the Indian team' He stated, "Both of them are not competing for the same spot. Hardik and Jadeja are finishers in the Indian team, and Dube is the kind of batter who comes in at No. 4 or 5. When the spinners are operating and conditions are slow, he can hit boundaries and accelerate to change the game. But between overs 16 and 20, Dube's strike rate isn't that high, he fails to hit that many runs. So I feel Hardik and Jadeja have that role in the Indian team." Also read: IPL 2024: 'Still hurts me' - DC spinner Kuldeep Yadav rues lack of experience while recalling his KKR days At present, Dube looks like a certainty in India's T20 WC squad whereas questions are being raised on Hardik given the Mumbai Indians (MI) captain's struggle with both bat and ball and as a leader in the ongoing IPL season. Talking about the CSK-LSG match, Chennai were asked to bat first and soon reduced to 49-2 before Gaikwad-Dube's 104-run fourth-wicket stand bailed them out and took the team score to 210-4. In reply, Lucknow won the high-scoring thriller owing to Marcus Stoinis' splendid 124 not out, laced with 13 fours and 6 sixes at 196.83.

IPL 2024: CSK star explains why Dube and Hardik are not fighting for the same spot in T20 World Cup

Rajasthan stun&nbsp;Mumbai by nine wickets in Jaipur.

<h2>RR vs MI Match highlights&nbsp;-</h2>

RR vs MI Live Score: Jaiswal's ton sinks MI in Jaipur&nbsp;

Yashasvi Jaiswal completed his second IPL hundred, the first of this season, as RR beat MI by nine wickets in Jaipur.&nbsp;

RR: 160/1, 16 overs

RR vs MI Live Score: Rain stops play in Jaipur

<meta name="uuid" content="uuid8z1vHD7mN9jJ" /><meta charset="utf-8" />The rain has interrupted proceedings in Jaipur as RR, with 61/0 in 6 overs, ahead on DLS.&nbsp;

RR: 61/0, 6 overs

RR vs MI Live Score: RR completes 50 inside Powerplay

Jos Buttler and Yashasvi Jaiswal complete a 50-plus run-stand inside the first six overs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

RR: 19/0, 3 overs

RR vs MI Live Score: MI set 180-run target

After a disastrous final over, MI finish with 179 on board. Given the poor start they had, the five-time champions would take where they have finished.&nbsp;

MI: 179/9, 20 over

RR vs MI Live Score: WICKET!&nbsp;&nbsp;

A five-wicket haul for Sandeep Sharma. Low fulltoss on middle and leg. Tim David on the backfoot mistimes it straight down the throat of Riyan Parag at wide long on where he settles under it nicely and takes a good catch.&nbsp;Tim David c Riyan Parag b Sandeep Sharma 3(5)

MI: 177/9, 19.5 over

RR vs MI Live Score: WICKET!&nbsp;&nbsp;

Two in two for MI! Another cross-seam delivery pushed away from the batter. Coetzee goes fetching for it and toe-ends it down to long off for an easy catch.&nbsp;Gerald Coetzee c Hetmyer b Sandeep Sharma 0(1)

MI: 176/8, 19.2 over

RR vs MI Live Score: WICKET!&nbsp;

Slower length ball in the channel outside off. Verma shovels it out but cannot get enough height on it as a diving Powell at long on takes a smart catch.&nbsp;Tilak Varma c Powell b Sandeep Sharma 65(45

MI: 176/7, 19.1 over

RR vs MI Live Score: WICKET!&nbsp;

Low fulltoss tailing into the natter. Pandya walks across his stumps and tries to hoick the ball behind square but cannot meet it, which thuds into the pads. The players appeal and the umpire raises the finger.&nbsp;Hardik Pandya lbw b Avesh Khan 10(10)

MI: 170/6, 18.2 over

RR vs MI Live Score: WICKET!&nbsp;

Short of good length ball dug into the track outside off. Wadhera rises with the ball and attempts to guide it over third man but cannot find the elevation and holes out.&nbsp;Nehal Wadhera c Sandeep Sharma b Boult 49(24)

MI: 151/5, 16.1 over

RR vs MI Live Score: Reprieve for Tilak

A ball after hitting a massive SIX, Tilak Verma has to depart. Tossed up ball on middle and leg, Verma sits on one knee and attempts a reverse sweep but misses the line and gets pegged on the front pad. The umpire raises the finger but the replays suggest that the ball was going down the leg

MI: 137/4, 15.2 over

RR vs MI Live Score: Wadhera and Tilak start going big

19 runs coming off Avesh Khan's last over as Nehal Wadhera and Tilak Verma tonk him to all parts of the park. MI finally have a liftoff.&nbsp;

MI: 120/4, 14 overs

RR vs MI Live Score: MI struggle for momentum&nbsp;

The RR bowlers continue the good work and starve MI batters of any rhythm and momentum.&nbsp;

MI: 82/4, 11 overs

RR vs MI Live Score: WICKET!

Wicket no. 200 for Chahal! What a landmark achievement. Length ball on middle and leg. Nabi tries to nurdle it across to onside but gets a leading edge which is caught by Chahal in his follow-through.&nbsp;Nabi c and b Chahal 23(17)

MI: 52/4, 7.3 overs

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First bowler in the history of IPL to take 200 wickets! 🙌 
 
Congratulations Yuzvendra Chahal 👏👏 
 
Watch the match LIVE on <a href="https://twitter.com/JioCinema?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JioCinema</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StarSportsIndia</a> 💻📱<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RRvMI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RRvMI</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/yuzi_chahal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@yuzi_chahal</a> <a href="https://t.co/zAcG8TR6LN">pic.twitter.com/zAcG8TR6LN</a>
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RR vs MI Live Score: Powerplay overs completed

Six overs completed and it is Royals that have the upper hand, having started outstandingly with the ball. Boult and Sandeep have been wreaking havoc with their line and lengths.&nbsp;

MI: 45/3, 6 over

RR vs MI Live Score: WICKET!

It gets bad to worse for MI. Fuller length ball on middle and leg. SKY on the frontfoot goes for an audacious flick but scythes it straight down Powell's throat at mid on who takes the catch without much fuss.&nbsp;Suryakumar Yadav c Powell b Sandeep Sharma 10 (8)

MI: 20/3, 3.1 over

RR vs MI Live Score: WICKET!

Both openers back in the hut. Good length ball angling across from the batter. Kishan has a loose waft at it and gets a faint outside edge that is gobbled up by Samson. The umpire doesn't give it out but the third umpire helps him overturn it.&nbsp;Ishan Kishan c Samson b Sandeep Sharma 0 (3)

MI: 6/2, 1.3 over

RR vs MI Live Score: WICKET! 
 
Length ball on middle and off. Rohit on the frontfoot attempts a swipe across the line but gets a top edge which is snaffled up with utmost caution by Sanju Samson behind.&nbsp;Rohit c Samson b Boult 6(5)

MI: 6/1, 1 over

RR vs MI Live Score: Game on! 
 
Rohit Sharma (RHB) and Ishan Kishan (LHB) to open the batting for MI while Trent Boult will handle the new ball responsibilities.&nbsp;

RR vs MI Live Score: Playing XI's

Mumbai Indians: Ishan Kishan(w), Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya(c), Tim David, Nehal Wadhera, Mohammad Nabi, Gerald Coetzee, Piyush Chawla, Jasprit Bumrah

Rajasthan Royals: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson(w/c), Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Ravichandran Ashwin, Trent Boult, Avesh Khan, Sandeep Sharma, Yuzvendra Chahal

RR vs MI Live Score: What do the captains have to say

Hardik Pandya | MI captain: We are gonna bat first, looks like a good wicket. It's a very surreal feeling to play the 100th game for the franchise, started my journey with MI, I'm very grateful.&nbsp;We got three changes - Nuwan, Wadhera and Piyush Chawla come in. Shepherd, Madhwal, and Shreyas Gopal go out.

Sanju Samson | RR captain: We had a slightly different idea about the toss so it’s okay. You know the nature of the tournament, it’s a very long tournament, we had a five day break and we discussed about our plans, it’s about focusing about the system and the process.

We have played lots of games here, we know how the wicket behaves. MI are known to come back hard in the tournament so we have to play well. We have had Sandeep Sharma back to our side and Kuldeep Sen misses out.

RR vs MI Live Score: Toss update

Mumbai Indians have won the toss and opted to bat first

RR vs MI Live Score: Get ready for the mega clash

Two top sides in IPL - Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians are ready for their second leg this season in Jaipur. Are you ready for the action?

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Starting the week with this BLOCKBUSTER 💥 
 
The Men in Pink 🩷 🆚 The Men in Blue 💙 
 
Which team are you cheering for tonight? 🤔 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RRvMI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RRvMI</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rajasthanroyals</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mipaltan</a> <a href="https://t.co/8nqOmIP2FW">pic.twitter.com/8nqOmIP2FW</a>
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Rajasthan stun Mumbai by nine wickets in Jaipur. RR vs MI Match highlights - RR vs MI Live Score: Jaiswal's ton sinks MI in Jaipur Yashasvi Jaiswal completed his second IPL hundred, the first of this season, as RR beat MI by nine wickets in Jaipur.

Rajasthan stun Mumbai by nine wickets in Jaipur. RR vs MI Match highlights - RR vs MI Live Score: Jaiswal's ton sinks MI in Jaipur Yashasvi Jaiswal completed his second IPL hundred, the first of this season, as RR beat MI by nine wickets in Jaipur. RR: 160/1, 16 overs RR vs MI Live Score: Rain stops play in Jaipur The rain has interrupted proceedings in Jaipur as RR, with 61/0 in 6 overs, ahead on DLS. RR: 61/0, 6 overs RR vs MI Live Score: RR completes 50 inside Powerplay Jos Buttler and Yashasvi Jaiswal complete a 50-plus run-stand inside the first six overs. RR: 19/0, 3 overs RR vs MI Live Score: MI set 180-run target After a disastrous final over, MI finish with 179 on board. Given the poor start they had, the five-time champions would take where they have finished. MI: 179/9, 20 over RR vs MI Live Score: WICKET! A five-wicket haul for Sandeep Sharma. Low fulltoss on middle and leg. Tim David on the backfoot mistimes it straight down the throat of Riyan Parag at wide long on where he settles under it nicely and takes a good catch. Tim David c Riyan Parag b Sandeep Sharma 3(5) MI: 177/9, 19.5 over RR vs MI Live Score: WICKET! Two in two for MI! Another cross-seam delivery pushed away from the batter. Coetzee goes fetching for it and toe-ends it down to long off for an easy catch. Gerald Coetzee c Hetmyer b Sandeep Sharma 0(1) MI: 176/8, 19.2 over RR vs MI Live Score: WICKET! Slower length ball in the channel outside off. Verma shovels it out but cannot get enough height on it as a diving Powell at long on takes a smart catch. Tilak Varma c Powell b Sandeep Sharma 65(45 MI: 176/7, 19.1 over RR vs MI Live Score: WICKET! Low fulltoss tailing into the natter. Pandya walks across his stumps and tries to hoick the ball behind square but cannot meet it, which thuds into the pads. The players appeal and the umpire raises the finger. Hardik Pandya lbw b Avesh Khan 10(10) MI: 170/6, 18.2 over RR vs MI Live Score: WICKET! Short of good length ball dug into the track outside off. Wadhera rises with the ball and attempts to guide it over third man but cannot find the elevation and holes out. Nehal Wadhera c Sandeep Sharma b Boult 49(24) MI: 151/5, 16.1 over RR vs MI Live Score: Reprieve for Tilak A ball after hitting a massive SIX, Tilak Verma has to depart. Tossed up ball on middle and leg, Verma sits on one knee and attempts a reverse sweep but misses the line and gets pegged on the front pad. The umpire raises the finger but the replays suggest that the ball was going down the leg MI: 137/4, 15.2 over RR vs MI Live Score: Wadhera and Tilak start going big 19 runs coming off Avesh Khan's last over as Nehal Wadhera and Tilak Verma tonk him to all parts of the park. MI finally have a liftoff. MI: 120/4, 14 overs RR vs MI Live Score: MI struggle for momentum The RR bowlers continue the good work and starve MI batters of any rhythm and momentum. MI: 82/4, 11 overs RR vs MI Live Score: WICKET! Wicket no. 200 for Chahal! What a landmark achievement. Length ball on middle and leg. Nabi tries to nurdle it across to onside but gets a leading edge which is caught by Chahal in his follow-through. Nabi c and b Chahal 23(17) MI: 52/4, 7.3 overs First bowler in the history of IPL to take 200 wickets! 🙌 Congratulations Yuzvendra Chahal 👏👏 Watch the match LIVE on @JioCinema and @StarSportsIndia 💻📱#TATAIPL | #RRvMI | @yuzi_chahal pic.twitter.com/zAcG8TR6LN — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 22, 2024 × RR vs MI Live Score: Powerplay overs completed Six overs completed and it is Royals that have the upper hand, having started outstandingly with the ball. Boult and Sandeep have been wreaking havoc with their line and lengths. MI: 45/3, 6 over RR vs MI Live Score: WICKET! It gets bad to worse for MI. Fuller length ball on middle and leg. SKY on the frontfoot goes for an audacious flick but scythes it straight down Powell's throat at mid on who takes the catch without much fuss. Suryakumar Yadav c Powell b Sandeep Sharma 10 (8) MI: 20/3, 3.1 over RR vs MI Live Score: WICKET! Both openers back in the hut. Good length ball angling across from the batter. Kishan has a loose waft at it and gets a faint outside edge that is gobbled up by Samson. The umpire doesn't give it out but the third umpire helps him overturn it. Ishan Kishan c Samson b Sandeep Sharma 0 (3) MI: 6/2, 1.3 over RR vs MI Live Score: WICKET! Length ball on middle and off. Rohit on the frontfoot attempts a swipe across the line but gets a top edge which is snaffled up with utmost caution by Sanju Samson behind. Rohit c Samson b Boult 6(5) MI: 6/1, 1 over RR vs MI Live Score: Game on! Rohit Sharma (RHB) and Ishan Kishan (LHB) to open the batting for MI while Trent Boult will handle the new ball responsibilities. RR vs MI Live Score: Playing XI's Mumbai Indians: Ishan Kishan(w), Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya(c), Tim David, Nehal Wadhera, Mohammad Nabi, Gerald Coetzee, Piyush Chawla, Jasprit Bumrah Rajasthan Royals: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson(w/c), Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Ravichandran Ashwin, Trent Boult, Avesh Khan, Sandeep Sharma, Yuzvendra Chahal RR vs MI Live Score: What do the captains have to say Hardik Pandya | MI captain: We are gonna bat first, looks like a good wicket. It's a very surreal feeling to play the 100th game for the franchise, started my journey with MI, I'm very grateful. We got three changes - Nuwan, Wadhera and Piyush Chawla come in. Shepherd, Madhwal, and Shreyas Gopal go out. Sanju Samson | RR captain: We had a slightly different idea about the toss so it’s okay. You know the nature of the tournament, it’s a very long tournament, we had a five day break and we discussed about our plans, it’s about focusing about the system and the process. We have played lots of games here, we know how the wicket behaves. MI are known to come back hard in the tournament so we have to play well. We have had Sandeep Sharma back to our side and Kuldeep Sen misses out. RR vs MI Live Score: Toss update Mumbai Indians have won the toss and opted to bat first RR vs MI Live Score: Get ready for the mega clash Two top sides in IPL - Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians are ready for their second leg this season in Jaipur. Are you ready for the action? Starting the week with this BLOCKBUSTER 💥 The Men in Pink 🩷 🆚 The Men in Blue 💙 Which team are you cheering for tonight? 🤔 #TATAIPL | #RRvMI | @rajasthanroyals | @mipaltan pic.twitter.com/8nqOmIP2FW — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 22, 2024 ×

RR vs MI Match Highlights: Rajasthan do a double on MI, win in Jaipur by 9 wickets

Former Indian batter Manoj Tiwary feels Mumbai Indians (MI) will not make it to the IPL 2024 playoffs due to Hardik Pandya's poor captaincy. Hardik-led MI lost to table-toppers Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match 38 on Monday evening (April 22), in Jaipur, which became their fifth loss in eight games. MI are languishing at the seventh spot and need to win all their remaining six games to stand a chance to progress ahead.

Speaking on Cricbuzz, Tiwary slammed Hardik for not using Jasprit Bumrah with the new ball during MI's 180-run defence versus Rajasthan. On air, former English cricketer-turned-commentator Kevin Pietersen also slammed Hardik for not relentlessly attacking centurion Yashasvi Jaiswal by bowling Gerald Coetzee from one end. Coetzee was troubling the RR opener with his pace and short balls but Hardik didn't continue with the South African. Moreover, Hardik has failed to make any impact with bat and ball in the ongoing edition. He has struggled in most innings, barring a few, with the bat whereas only accounted for four wickets.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-jaiswal-thanks-rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-after-roaring-back-to-form-with-104-in-rr-vs-mi-tie-714193">IPL 2024: Jaiswal thanks Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli after roaring back to form with 104* in RR vs MI tie</a>

<h2>‘Feels like that MI players have not bought into Hardik Pandya as their captain’</h2>

Thus, Tiwary told, "If you have Jasprit Bumrah in the line-up why will you not bowl him in the first over? Buttler came off a hundred, Jaiswal was not in the best form, you need to give your best bowler the best chance of picking a wicket. When Hardik Pandya came in, he got hit for 2 boundaries and that took the shine away from the new ball slightly, and the margin of swing reduced. Things got easier for the batter."

"I don't see MI progressing in the points table because these silly mistakes are being made," Tiwary further opined.

Tiwary concluded by saying that it feels MI have not bought into Hardik as their captain. "If this kind of captaincy continues, MI are not making the playoffs. Previously, players were with Rohit Sharma. Now it feels like that MI players have not bought into Hardik Pandya as the captain of the side," he added.

MI will now face Delhi Capitals (DC) on Saturday (April 27) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.

Former Indian batter Manoj Tiwary feels Mumbai Indians (MI) will not make it to the IPL 2024 playoffs due to Hardik Pandya's poor captaincy. Hardik-led MI lost to table-toppers Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match 38 on Monday evening (April 22), in Jaipur, which became their fifth loss in eight games.

Former Indian batter Manoj Tiwary feels Mumbai Indians (MI) will not make it to the IPL 2024 playoffs due to Hardik Pandya's poor captaincy. Hardik-led MI lost to table-toppers Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match 38 on Monday evening (April 22), in Jaipur, which became their fifth loss in eight games. MI are languishing at the seventh spot and need to win all their remaining six games to stand a chance to progress ahead. Speaking on Cricbuzz, Tiwary slammed Hardik for not using Jasprit Bumrah with the new ball during MI's 180-run defence versus Rajasthan. On air, former English cricketer-turned-commentator Kevin Pietersen also slammed Hardik for not relentlessly attacking centurion Yashasvi Jaiswal by bowling Gerald Coetzee from one end. Coetzee was troubling the RR opener with his pace and short balls but Hardik didn't continue with the South African. Moreover, Hardik has failed to make any impact with bat and ball in the ongoing edition. He has struggled in most innings, barring a few, with the bat whereas only accounted for four wickets. Also read: IPL 2024: Jaiswal thanks Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli after roaring back to form with 104* in RR vs MI tie ‘Feels like that MI players have not bought into Hardik Pandya as their captain’ Thus, Tiwary told, "If you have Jasprit Bumrah in the line-up why will you not bowl him in the first over? Buttler came off a hundred, Jaiswal was not in the best form, you need to give your best bowler the best chance of picking a wicket. When Hardik Pandya came in, he got hit for 2 boundaries and that took the shine away from the new ball slightly, and the margin of swing reduced. Things got easier for the batter." "I don't see MI progressing in the points table because these silly mistakes are being made," Tiwary further opined. Tiwary concluded by saying that it feels MI have not bought into Hardik as their captain. "If this kind of captaincy continues, MI are not making the playoffs. Previously, players were with Rohit Sharma. Now it feels like that MI players have not bought into Hardik Pandya as the captain of the side," he added. MI will now face Delhi Capitals (DC) on Saturday (April 27) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.

IPL 2024: Poor captaincy from Hardik Pandya will cost MI playoffs spot, feels former Indian batter

Match 38 of the IPL 2024 edition saw the table-toppers Rajasthan Royals (RR) demolish Hardik Pandya's Mumbai Indians (MI) by nine wickets while chasing&nbsp;180 in a rain-marred affair at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium in Jaipur on Monday (Apr 22).

MI opted to bat first and rode on Tilak Varma's 65 (45) and Nehal Wadhera's 49 (24) to post 179 for 9 whereas Sandeep Sharma shined with a brilliant 5 for 18. In reply, Yashasvi Jaiswal's unbeaten 104* and skipper Sanju Samson's 38* took their side home in 18.4 overs without dropping much sweat.

After the game, Hardik&nbsp;was asked about his feelings in the post-match presentation. The MI skipper smiled and replied that it was not the right time to criticise his players as he said that everyone&nbsp;is a professional in the team.

This hasn't been well received by South African legend Dale Steyn. Steyn seemed irritated with players using the&nbsp;cliched phrases&nbsp;and not being honest in post-match interactions.

The former SA pacer wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "I really look forward to the day players might say what’s honestly on their mind. Instead we some how dumbed ourselves and our minds into saying the usual safe thing, lose the next game, smile and then repeat that nonsense again."

Here is his post:

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I really look forward to the day players might say what’s honestly on their mind. Instead we some how dumbed ourselves and our minds into saying the usual safe thing, lose the next game, smile and then repeat that nonsense again. 🙄 
 
PS. Qdk, I love you
— Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) <a href="https://twitter.com/DaleSteyn62/status/1782481882489241701?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-jaiswals-century-helps-rr-do-the-double-as-mi-fumble-yet-again-713985">IPL 2024: Jaiswal’s century helps RR do the double as MI fumble yet again</a>

Post MI's fifth defeat of the season, Hardik said, "Overall, we did not put the right foot on the park and eventually they outplayed us. After the game, it's not the right time to go to the players, everyone is professional, they know their roles. What we can do is learn from this game and the mistakes which we have made, rectify it and make sure that we don't make it. Progression is very important."

"Within the team, individually, we will have to accept our flaws and maybe work on those. I don't believe much in chip and chop, I like to back players and the focus would always be to play good cricket, sticking to our plans and making sure that we don't make the basic errors. Cricket is simple, as long as we keep it simple, it's nice," the MI captain added.

Hardik has also not been impressive with both bat and ball in the ongoing edition. He has 151 runs, at an average of 21.57 and strike rate of&nbsp;142.45, whereas he has only managed four wickets in eight games. MI are currently at the seventh place with only three wins from eight games.

Match 38 of the IPL 2024 edition saw the table-toppers Rajasthan Royals (RR) demolish Hardik Pandya's Mumbai Indians (MI) by nine wickets while chasing 180 in a rain-marred affair at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium in Jaipur on Monday (Apr 22).

Match 38 of the IPL 2024 edition saw the table-toppers Rajasthan Royals (RR) demolish Hardik Pandya's Mumbai Indians (MI) by nine wickets while chasing 180 in a rain-marred affair at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium in Jaipur on Monday (Apr 22). MI opted to bat first and rode on Tilak Varma's 65 (45) and Nehal Wadhera's 49 (24) to post 179 for 9 whereas Sandeep Sharma shined with a brilliant 5 for 18. In reply, Yashasvi Jaiswal's unbeaten 104* and skipper Sanju Samson's 38* took their side home in 18.4 overs without dropping much sweat. After the game, Hardik was asked about his feelings in the post-match presentation. The MI skipper smiled and replied that it was not the right time to criticise his players as he said that everyone is a professional in the team. This hasn't been well received by South African legend Dale Steyn. Steyn seemed irritated with players using the cliched phrases and not being honest in post-match interactions. The former SA pacer wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "I really look forward to the day players might say what’s honestly on their mind. Instead we some how dumbed ourselves and our minds into saying the usual safe thing, lose the next game, smile and then repeat that nonsense again." Here is his post: I really look forward to the day players might say what’s honestly on their mind. Instead we some how dumbed ourselves and our minds into saying the usual safe thing, lose the next game, smile and then repeat that nonsense again. 🙄 PS. Qdk, I love you — Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) April 22, 2024 × Also read: IPL 2024: Jaiswal’s century helps RR do the double as MI fumble yet again Post MI's fifth defeat of the season, Hardik said, "Overall, we did not put the right foot on the park and eventually they outplayed us. After the game, it's not the right time to go to the players, everyone is professional, they know their roles. What we can do is learn from this game and the mistakes which we have made, rectify it and make sure that we don't make it. Progression is very important." "Within the team, individually, we will have to accept our flaws and maybe work on those. I don't believe much in chip and chop, I like to back players and the focus would always be to play good cricket, sticking to our plans and making sure that we don't make the basic errors. Cricket is simple, as long as we keep it simple, it's nice," the MI captain added. Hardik has also not been impressive with both bat and ball in the ongoing edition. He has 151 runs, at an average of 21.57 and strike rate of 142.45, whereas he has only managed four wickets in eight games. MI are currently at the seventh place with only three wins from eight games.

IPL 2024: 'Lose the game, smile & repeat same nonsense' - Steyn slams Hardik's comments after MI lose to RR

The Indian Premier League (IPL) commission fined Mumbai Indians (MI) duo Kieron Pollard and Tim David on Saturday (April 20) for breaching the spirit of cricket. The fine comes a day after captain Hardik Panday was also slapped with an offence relating to slow overrate in their contest against Punjab Kings (PBKS). The fine will have ramifications on the duo's involvement in their upcoming IPL match against Rajasthan Royals (RR) which takes place on Monday at the Sawai Mansing Stadium.

<h2>Mumbai duo fined</h2>

Article 2.20 states: "When assessing the seriousness of the offence, the context of the particular situation, and whether it was deliberate, reckless, negligent, avoidable and/or accidental, shall be considered. Further, the person lodging the Report shall determine where on the range of severity the conduct lays, with the range of severity starting at conduct of a minor nature (and hence a Level 1 offence) up to conduct of an extremely serious nature (and hence a Level 4 offence)."

It&nbsp;is reported&nbsp;that both David and Pollard have&nbsp;been fined&nbsp;20 percent of their total match fees&nbsp;having&nbsp;committed a Level 1 offence under Article 2.20, which covers all types of conduct&nbsp;that are contrary to the spirit of the game.

During the PBKS vs MI match,&nbsp;it was seen&nbsp;that Tim David and Kieron Pollard directed their side to take a review for the wide ball. The incident happened on the fifth ball of the 15th over and did not go&nbsp;good&nbsp;with the PBKS team&nbsp;as&nbsp;MI got technical assistance from the sidelines.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-fleming-lauds-ms-dhonis-skill-set-in-pre-season-as-mahi-turns-back-clock-against-lsg-713259">IPL 2024: Fleming lauds MS Dhoni’s skill-set in pre-season as Mahi turns back clock against LSG</a>

The incident was reported&nbsp;to match referee Sanjay Verma&nbsp;after&nbsp;which both Pollard and David accepted their charges. Both were sanctioned for the incident and will face no further action ahead of the&nbsp;team’s&nbsp;clash against Rajasthan Royals.

The win against PBKS on Thursday was&nbsp;MI’s&nbsp;third of the IPL 2024 season. They&nbsp;will now look for another win&nbsp;on Monday against Rajasthan Royals. RR have lost only one match so far in the IPL 2024&nbsp;which&nbsp;was&nbsp;against Gujarat Titans. RR had beaten MI earlier in the season in a one-sided contest at the Wankhede Stadium. So&nbsp;MI&nbsp;will have revenge on their cards on Monday

The Indian Premier League (IPL) commission fined Mumbai Indians (MI) duo Kieron Pollard and Tim David on Saturday (April 20) for breaching the spirit of cricket.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) commission fined Mumbai Indians (MI) duo Kieron Pollard and Tim David on Saturday (April 20) for breaching the spirit of cricket. The fine comes a day after captain Hardik Panday was also slapped with an offence relating to slow overrate in their contest against Punjab Kings (PBKS). The fine will have ramifications on the duo's involvement in their upcoming IPL match against Rajasthan Royals (RR) which takes place on Monday at the Sawai Mansing Stadium. Mumbai duo fined Article 2.20 states: "When assessing the seriousness of the offence, the context of the particular situation, and whether it was deliberate, reckless, negligent, avoidable and/or accidental, shall be considered. Further, the person lodging the Report shall determine where on the range of severity the conduct lays, with the range of severity starting at conduct of a minor nature (and hence a Level 1 offence) up to conduct of an extremely serious nature (and hence a Level 4 offence)." It is reported that both David and Pollard have been fined 20 percent of their total match fees having committed a Level 1 offence under Article 2.20, which covers all types of conduct that are contrary to the spirit of the game. During the PBKS vs MI match, it was seen that Tim David and Kieron Pollard directed their side to take a review for the wide ball. The incident happened on the fifth ball of the 15th over and did not go good with the PBKS team as MI got technical assistance from the sidelines. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: Fleming lauds MS Dhoni’s skill-set in pre-season as Mahi turns back clock against LSG The incident was reported to match referee Sanjay Verma after which both Pollard and David accepted their charges. Both were sanctioned for the incident and will face no further action ahead of the team’s clash against Rajasthan Royals. The win against PBKS on Thursday was MI’s third of the IPL 2024 season. They will now look for another win on Monday against Rajasthan Royals. RR have lost only one match so far in the IPL 2024 which was against Gujarat Titans. RR had beaten MI earlier in the season in a one-sided contest at the Wankhede Stadium. So MI will have revenge on their cards on Monday

IPL 2024: After Hardik Pandya, Mumbai Indians duo Kieron Pollard, Tim David fined for THIS reason

Mumbai Indians (MI) beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by nine runs in match 33 of the IPL 2024 edition, on Thursday evening (April 18) in Mullanpur, Chandigarh. Hardik Pandya-led side rode on Suryakumar Yadav's 78, Rohit Sharma's 36 and Tilak Varma's 34* (18) to post 193-7 whereas Punjab were 14-4, and further reduced to 111-7, before Shashank Singh (41) and Ashutosh Sharma (28-ball 61) revived their run-chase. Nonetheless, Punjab eventually fell short as they were dismissed for 183 in 19.1 overs.

Despite Punjab losing yet another close encounter in the ongoing edition, Ashutosh continued to make giant strides in the 2024 season. He has been making runs consistently despite batting at No. 8. He, along with Shashank, pulled off a heist versus Gujarat Titans (GT) -- in pursuit of 200 -- in match 17&nbsp;and almost replicated their performance versus MI.&nbsp;

Thus, MI captain Hardik heaped praise on Ashutosh's hitting abilities during the post-match presentation.

Hardik opined on the overall contest and stated, "Very good game of cricket. Everyone's nerve got tested. We did speak about before the game that the character will be checked in this game. Naturally you think you're ahead in the game. But we knew IPL has a tendency to produce these games."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pbks-vs-mi-no-one-can-play-a-sweep-shot-off-bumrah-zaheer-khan-heaps-praise-on-ashutosh-sharma-712891">PBKS vs MI: 'No one can play a sweep shot off Bumrah' - Zaheer Khan heaps praise on Ashutosh Sharma</a>

Hardik then spoke about Ashutosh and added, "Unbelievable - coming in and playing like that (Ashutosh's knock). Almost every ball hitting the middle. Happy for him and chuffed for his future."

Ashutosh top-scored for Punjab with a brilliant 28-ball 61, laced with 2 fours and as many as 7 sixes at 217.86, in a tough chase versus the five-time champions. His sweep shot off Jasprit Bumrah -- who ended with 3 for 21 and won the Player-of-the-Match award -- was praised heavily. Despite his heroics going in vain, the 25-year-old will be eager to continue in a similar manner in the upcoming games for the ninth-ranked Punjab.

Mumbai Indians (MI) beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by nine runs in match 33 of the IPL 2024 edition, on Thursday evening (April 18) in Mullanpur, Chandigarh. Hardik Pandya-led side rode on Suryakumar Yadav's 78, Rohit Sharma's 36 and Tilak Varma's 34* (18) to post 193-7 whereas Punjab were 14-4, and further reduced to 111-7, before Shashank Singh (41) and Ashutosh Sharma (28-ball 61) revived their run-chase.

Mumbai Indians (MI) beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by nine runs in match 33 of the IPL 2024 edition, on Thursday evening (April 18) in Mullanpur, Chandigarh. Hardik Pandya-led side rode on Suryakumar Yadav's 78, Rohit Sharma's 36 and Tilak Varma's 34* (18) to post 193-7 whereas Punjab were 14-4, and further reduced to 111-7, before Shashank Singh (41) and Ashutosh Sharma (28-ball 61) revived their run-chase. Nonetheless, Punjab eventually fell short as they were dismissed for 183 in 19.1 overs. Despite Punjab losing yet another close encounter in the ongoing edition, Ashutosh continued to make giant strides in the 2024 season. He has been making runs consistently despite batting at No. 8. He, along with Shashank, pulled off a heist versus Gujarat Titans (GT) -- in pursuit of 200 -- in match 17 and almost replicated their performance versus MI. Thus, MI captain Hardik heaped praise on Ashutosh's hitting abilities during the post-match presentation. Hardik opined on the overall contest and stated, "Very good game of cricket. Everyone's nerve got tested. We did speak about before the game that the character will be checked in this game. Naturally you think you're ahead in the game. But we knew IPL has a tendency to produce these games." Also read: PBKS vs MI: 'No one can play a sweep shot off Bumrah' - Zaheer Khan heaps praise on Ashutosh Sharma Hardik then spoke about Ashutosh and added, "Unbelievable - coming in and playing like that (Ashutosh's knock). Almost every ball hitting the middle. Happy for him and chuffed for his future." Ashutosh top-scored for Punjab with a brilliant 28-ball 61, laced with 2 fours and as many as 7 sixes at 217.86, in a tough chase versus the five-time champions. His sweep shot off Jasprit Bumrah -- who ended with 3 for 21 and won the Player-of-the-Match award -- was praised heavily. Despite his heroics going in vain, the 25-year-old will be eager to continue in a similar manner in the upcoming games for the ninth-ranked Punjab.

IPL 2024: Hardik lauds 'unbelievable' Ashutosh Sharma, says 'chuffed for his future' after PBKS vs MI tie

Underfire Mumbai Indians Captain Hardik Pandya has been slapped with a hefty fine of INR 12 lakh for maintaining slow over-rate during his side’s close win against Punjab Kings on Thursday (April 18) in IPL 2024.

Underfire Mumbai Indians Captain Hardik Pandya has been slapped with a hefty fine of INR 12 lakh for maintaining slow over-rate during his side’s close win against Punjab Kings on Thursday (April 18) in IPL 2024. Even during the last two overs in the second innings, the touring MI side was penalised as only four fielders were allowed near the boundary instead of five. "As it was his team's first offence of the season under the IPL's Code of Conduct relating to minimum over-rate offences, Pandya was fined Rs 12 lakhs," the BCCI said in a release. Mumbai Indians fell short behind by two overs but managed to steal a tight win over PBKS by nine runs. The outfit in blue survived a close scare from Punjab’s find of the season, Ashutosh Sharma, who slammed a brilliant 21-ball 68 while chasing, putting his team in the winning position at one stage. After getting reduced to 14 for four inside the Powerplay and 77 for six later in the inning, Punjab’s back was against the wall. Their two performers this season, Shashank Singh and Ashutosh, brought their A-game to the table, putting Hardik and Mumbai Indians under pressure. Confidence & composure! ✨ Ashutosh Sharma reaches his Maiden IPL fifty and he's kept the chase well & truly alive! 🔥 Watch the match LIVE on @StarSportsIndia and @JioCinema 💻📱 #TATAIPL | #PBKSvMI pic.twitter.com/YUIR7gn9Bu — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 18, 2024 × Mumbai steal close win in Mullanpur However, with only four players allowed near the boundary line during the last two overs, Akash Madhwal bowled an excellent final over to restrict PBKS when they needed 13 off six balls. ALSO READ: PBKS vs MI: 'No one can play a sweep shot off Bumrah' - Zaheer Khan heaps praise on Ashutosh Sharma "It was a very good game. Everyone's nerves got tested. We spoke that the characters would be checked in this game. It is natural you think you are ahead but IPL tends to show that opposition can come back and how," Hardik Pandya said after the win over Punjab Kings in Mullanpur. Meanwhile, Jasprit Bumrah and Gerald Coetzee picked three wickets each, with Bumrah bowling the delivery of the match to dismiss PBKS batter Rilee Rossouw, bowled off a yorker. His exploits throughout the tournament, let alone in the previous game, are instrumental to his team picking pace following a jittery start. WHAT. A. BALL! 🎯 That's a beaut of a delivery from @Jaspritbumrah93 to dismiss Rilee Rossouw ☝️ Watch the match LIVE on @StarSportsIndia and @JioCinema 💻📱#TATAIPL | #PBKSvMI pic.twitter.com/Lqk4vxUuss — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 18, 2024 × After the win over the hosts, Mumbai has climbed to the seventh spot on the points table, with three wins from seven contested matches.

IPL 2024: BCCI slaps fine on Hardik Pandya for maintaining slow over-rate against PBKS

Hardik Pandya is having a tough time in IPL 2024. Ever since he took over as the Mumbai Indians (MI) captain ahead of this year's season, Indian fans have trolled him for replacing Rohit Sharma. The all-rounder was traded from Gujarat Titans (GT) ahead of last year's mini-auction. The former Gujarat captain led the recently-formed franchise to a maiden title in their inaugural season in 2022, however, his sudden switch to MI didn't please many. Further, Hardik replacing Rohit -- who led MI to five IPL titles -- angered many fans.

Moreover, Hardik has made a return to competitive cricket after recovering from an&nbsp;ankle injury sustained during the home ODI World Cup&nbsp;in late 2023. Many Indian fans have slammed him for regularly missing India games but regaining fitness for the IPL. Thus, the 30-year-old has been booed and severely trolled in almost every game for MI this season. After MI's 20-run loss to Chennai Super Kings (CSK), in match 29 of IPL 2024, former England captain-turned-commentator Kevin Pietersen came to Hardik's support and urged the Indian fans to stop the booing with T20 World Cup soon to kickoff, in June.

<h2>'When he finishes his Indian career, when he finishes playing cricket, it's still going to hurt him'</h2>

Recalling his own experience, Pietersen told Star Sports, "It's not just affects you, it affects your family. And that's the fear for what's happening for me with Hardik at the moment is that this is going to hurt him for a very, very long time. When he finishes his Indian career, when he finishes playing cricket, it's still going to hurt him and that's why something drastic has to be done."

He further opined, "But it still hurts me absolutely, massively. I mean, you have a look at the reception sometimes that I get in England on occasions, just have a look at my social media feed. I mean, once you have an imprint like that on and the perception is there about the individual, I mean, it's hard to change perception. I mean I've been coming to India for the last 25 years, I have never, ever heard this sort of noise towards one player."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-video-rcbs-dinesh-karthik-hits-108-metre-six-vs-srh-ball-lands-on-stadium-roof-711743">IPL 2024: VIDEO | RCB's Dinesh Karthik hits 108-metre six vs SRH, ball lands on stadium roof</a>

<h2>'Will the people who are booing him going to boo him when he plays vs Pakistan'</h2>

KP added, "Something drastic has to be done because this guy is an Indian cricketer and in a month's time you wanna win a World Cup for India. Are the same people who are booing him now going to boo him when he plays against Pakistan in New York on the ninth or the 10th of June. I don't think so. So it needs to stop and something needs to happen. Something drastic needs to happen because I don't like seeing another cricket are going through something that I actually went through."

Hardik has not made any impact with bat and ball so far in IPL 2024. Clearly, he has been affected by the constant booing and criticism. It will be interesting to see if he bounces back with a T20 WC spot up for grabs. India's provisional squad is expected to be out by early May. The all-rounder will need to bowl more regularly and produce more impactful knocks with the bat to regain his spot in the national side.

At present, Hardik-led MI are in the eighth spot in the IPL 2024 points table and will next face Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Chandigarh on April 18 (Thursday).

Hardik Pandya is having a tough time in IPL 2024. Ever since he took over as the Mumbai Indians (MI) captain ahead of this year's season, Indian fans have trolled him for replacing Rohit Sharma.

Hardik Pandya is having a tough time in IPL 2024. Ever since he took over as the Mumbai Indians (MI) captain ahead of this year's season, Indian fans have trolled him for replacing Rohit Sharma. The all-rounder was traded from Gujarat Titans (GT) ahead of last year's mini-auction. The former Gujarat captain led the recently-formed franchise to a maiden title in their inaugural season in 2022, however, his sudden switch to MI didn't please many. Further, Hardik replacing Rohit -- who led MI to five IPL titles -- angered many fans. Moreover, Hardik has made a return to competitive cricket after recovering from an ankle injury sustained during the home ODI World Cup in late 2023. Many Indian fans have slammed him for regularly missing India games but regaining fitness for the IPL. Thus, the 30-year-old has been booed and severely trolled in almost every game for MI this season. After MI's 20-run loss to Chennai Super Kings (CSK), in match 29 of IPL 2024, former England captain-turned-commentator Kevin Pietersen came to Hardik's support and urged the Indian fans to stop the booing with T20 World Cup soon to kickoff, in June. 'When he finishes his Indian career, when he finishes playing cricket, it's still going to hurt him' Recalling his own experience, Pietersen told Star Sports, "It's not just affects you, it affects your family. And that's the fear for what's happening for me with Hardik at the moment is that this is going to hurt him for a very, very long time. When he finishes his Indian career, when he finishes playing cricket, it's still going to hurt him and that's why something drastic has to be done." He further opined, "But it still hurts me absolutely, massively. I mean, you have a look at the reception sometimes that I get in England on occasions, just have a look at my social media feed. I mean, once you have an imprint like that on and the perception is there about the individual, I mean, it's hard to change perception. I mean I've been coming to India for the last 25 years, I have never, ever heard this sort of noise towards one player." Also read: IPL 2024: VIDEO | RCB's Dinesh Karthik hits 108-metre six vs SRH, ball lands on stadium roof 'Will the people who are booing him going to boo him when he plays vs Pakistan' KP added, "Something drastic has to be done because this guy is an Indian cricketer and in a month's time you wanna win a World Cup for India. Are the same people who are booing him now going to boo him when he plays against Pakistan in New York on the ninth or the 10th of June. I don't think so. So it needs to stop and something needs to happen. Something drastic needs to happen because I don't like seeing another cricket are going through something that I actually went through." Hardik has not made any impact with bat and ball so far in IPL 2024. Clearly, he has been affected by the constant booing and criticism. It will be interesting to see if he bounces back with a T20 WC spot up for grabs. India's provisional squad is expected to be out by early May. The all-rounder will need to bowl more regularly and produce more impactful knocks with the bat to regain his spot in the national side. At present, Hardik-led MI are in the eighth spot in the IPL 2024 points table and will next face Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Chandigarh on April 18 (Thursday).

'This guy is an Indian cricketer...': Pietersen urges fans to stop booing Hardik Pandya ahead of T20 World Cup

Chennai Super Kings won their first away game this season against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday night. MS Dhoni’s match-winning cameo of unbeaten 20 off four balls was the difference, as touring CSK clinched the marquee clash by 20 runs to go third on the points table. MI captain, Hardik Pandya, who bowled the last over, conceding 26 runs, said Dhoni’s contribution helped CSK clinch a crucial win.

Pandya failed to deliver with the ball and the bat against CSK. Leaking 43 runs off three overs while picking two wickets, Pandya scored just two runs during the run chase that saw them falling short of the target despite Rohit Sharma’s hundred.

Speaking to the broadcaster after the game, Pandya lauded Matheesha Pathirana for picking four for 28 in the second innings and credited MS Dhoni for keeping the team together while sharing his expertise from behind.&nbsp;

“It (target) was definitely gettable, but they bowled pretty well. Pathirana was the difference. They were smart with their plans and their approach. They got the hang of it, there's a man behind the stumps (Dhoni) who tells them what's working, that helps,” Pandya said while explaining what went wrong for MI at Wankhede.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-chennai-super-kings-slay-mumbai-indians-in-their-den-after-ms-dhonis-blitzkrieg-711271">IPL 2024: Chennai Super Kings slay Mumbai Indians in their den after MS Dhoni's blitzkrieg</a>

The captain also shared his thoughts on the pitch, saying it got difficult to bat on as the game progressed, but admitted that Pathirana’s spell changed the complexion.

“It (pitch) was holding up a bit and getting difficult. It was about batting well and keeping the intent. We were going quite well (in the run chase) till Pathirana came into the attack and took those two wickets.&nbsp;

“It was about what is best at that time, we could have done something different. I like to play percentage cricket; it would have been difficult for him (Dube) against seamers rather than spin. We are on the road for the next four games, need to play good cricket, need to keep the intensity high,” Pandya concluded.

<h2>Chennai is back&nbsp;</h2>

Chennai batted first and posted a huge total of 206 for four, thanks to fifties from Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shivam Dube. However, the cherry on the cake was MS Dhoni’s inning at the end that broke the internet.

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DO NOT MISS 
 
MSD 🤝 Hat-trick of Sixes 🤝 Wankhede going berserk 
 
Sit back &amp; enjoy the LEGEND spreading joy &amp; beyond 💛 😍 
 
Watch the match LIVE on <a href="https://twitter.com/JioCinema?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JioCinema</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StarSportsIndia</a> 💻📱<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIvCSK</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/SuRErWrQTG">pic.twitter.com/SuRErWrQTG</a>
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Mumbai got off to a flying start, but Pathirana’s introduction changed the whole scenario. Although Rohit Sharma shined with the bat, completing a hundred at his home venue, CSK came on top.&nbsp;

Chennai Super Kings won their first away game this season against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday night. MS Dhoni’s match-winning cameo of unbeaten 20 off four balls was the difference, as touring CSK clinched the marquee clash by 20 runs to go third on the points table.

Chennai Super Kings won their first away game this season against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday night. MS Dhoni’s match-winning cameo of unbeaten 20 off four balls was the difference, as touring CSK clinched the marquee clash by 20 runs to go third on the points table. MI captain, Hardik Pandya, who bowled the last over, conceding 26 runs, said Dhoni’s contribution helped CSK clinch a crucial win. Pandya failed to deliver with the ball and the bat against CSK. Leaking 43 runs off three overs while picking two wickets, Pandya scored just two runs during the run chase that saw them falling short of the target despite Rohit Sharma’s hundred. Speaking to the broadcaster after the game, Pandya lauded Matheesha Pathirana for picking four for 28 in the second innings and credited MS Dhoni for keeping the team together while sharing his expertise from behind. “It (target) was definitely gettable, but they bowled pretty well. Pathirana was the difference. They were smart with their plans and their approach. They got the hang of it, there's a man behind the stumps (Dhoni) who tells them what's working, that helps,” Pandya said while explaining what went wrong for MI at Wankhede. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: Chennai Super Kings slay Mumbai Indians in their den after MS Dhoni's blitzkrieg The captain also shared his thoughts on the pitch, saying it got difficult to bat on as the game progressed, but admitted that Pathirana’s spell changed the complexion. “It (pitch) was holding up a bit and getting difficult. It was about batting well and keeping the intent. We were going quite well (in the run chase) till Pathirana came into the attack and took those two wickets. “It was about what is best at that time, we could have done something different. I like to play percentage cricket; it would have been difficult for him (Dube) against seamers rather than spin. We are on the road for the next four games, need to play good cricket, need to keep the intensity high,” Pandya concluded. Chennai is back Chennai batted first and posted a huge total of 206 for four, thanks to fifties from Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shivam Dube. However, the cherry on the cake was MS Dhoni’s inning at the end that broke the internet. DO NOT MISS MSD 🤝 Hat-trick of Sixes 🤝 Wankhede going berserk Sit back & enjoy the LEGEND spreading joy & beyond 💛 😍 Watch the match LIVE on @JioCinema and @StarSportsIndia 💻📱#TATAIPL | #MIvCSK | @msdhoni | @ChennaiIPL pic.twitter.com/SuRErWrQTG — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 14, 2024 × Mumbai got off to a flying start, but Pathirana’s introduction changed the whole scenario. Although Rohit Sharma shined with the bat, completing a hundred at his home venue, CSK came on top.

IPL 2024: ‘There’s a man behind the stumps who tells them what’s working’ - Pandya on MI’s loss to CSK

Mumbai Indians (MI) batting coach Kieron Pollard defended skipper Hardik Pandya after their fourth loss in six games in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. Chasing 208, Mumbai lost by 20 runs to Chennai Super Kings on Sunday (Apr 14) despite Rohit Sharma's unbeaten 105.

Hardik, notably, had given 26 runs in the CSK innings' last over including 20 runs off last four balls to CSK's MS Dhoni which eventually proved to be the difference. While batting, Pandya could score just 2 off 6 before getting out.

Also Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mayhem-singh-dhoni-in-full-flow-fans-go-wild-as-dhoni-hits-hattrick-of-sixes-to-take-csk-past-200-watch-711252">‘Mayhem Singh Dhoni in full flow’: Fans go wild as Dhoni hits hattrick of sixes to take CSK past 200</a>

Speaking after the match, Pollard said: "I am fed up of [us] looking to pinpoint individuals; cricket is a team game at the end of the day. This is an individual that is going to represent the country in less than six weeks' time, and all are going to cheer him and want him to do well. So high time we try to encourage and stop nitpicking and see if we can get the best out of one of the great allrounders India has produced. He can bat, bowl and field, and has a X-factor about him."

"I hope very well deep down within my heart that when he comes out on top, I'll sit back and watch everyone sing his praises," he added.

Hardik&nbsp;replaced Rohit ahead of the season as the skipper and has faced&nbsp;criticism since then for his form and tactics.

However, during the match against CSK, it was just poor batting and bowling by him which played a key role in MI's defeat. While bowling, Pandya did take two wickets but gave away 43 runs in three overs.&nbsp;As a batter, the skipper couldn't do much either as he spent just eight minute in the middle scoring only 2 runs.

With four losses and two wins, MI are currently at eighth place on the 10-team points table, ahead of Delhi Capitals (ninth) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Mumbai Indians (MI) batting coach Kieron Pollard defended skipper Hardik Pandya after their fourth loss in six games in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024.

Mumbai Indians (MI) batting coach Kieron Pollard defended skipper Hardik Pandya after their fourth loss in six games in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. Chasing 208, Mumbai lost by 20 runs to Chennai Super Kings on Sunday (Apr 14) despite Rohit Sharma's unbeaten 105. Hardik, notably, had given 26 runs in the CSK innings' last over including 20 runs off last four balls to CSK's MS Dhoni which eventually proved to be the difference. While batting, Pandya could score just 2 off 6 before getting out. Also Watch: ‘Mayhem Singh Dhoni in full flow’: Fans go wild as Dhoni hits hattrick of sixes to take CSK past 200 Speaking after the match, Pollard said: "I am fed up of [us] looking to pinpoint individuals; cricket is a team game at the end of the day. This is an individual that is going to represent the country in less than six weeks' time, and all are going to cheer him and want him to do well. So high time we try to encourage and stop nitpicking and see if we can get the best out of one of the great allrounders India has produced. He can bat, bowl and field, and has a X-factor about him." "I hope very well deep down within my heart that when he comes out on top, I'll sit back and watch everyone sing his praises," he added. Hardik replaced Rohit ahead of the season as the skipper and has faced criticism since then for his form and tactics. However, during the match against CSK, it was just poor batting and bowling by him which played a key role in MI's defeat. While bowling, Pandya did take two wickets but gave away 43 runs in three overs. As a batter, the skipper couldn't do much either as he spent just eight minute in the middle scoring only 2 runs. With four losses and two wins, MI are currently at eighth place on the 10-team points table, ahead of Delhi Capitals (ninth) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

IPL 2024: 'I am fed up...,' MI batting coach Kieron Pollard on Hardik Pandya's performance in loss vs CSK

Former England cricketer is of the view that Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya is masking his feelings by wearing a smily constantly to cope with the barrage of criticism coming his way. The veteran player said Pandya was 'smiling too much', acting like 'he was happy' when the truth was somewhat different.&nbsp;

Pandya-led MI succumbed in the season's first El Clasico against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 20 runs where certain decisions taken by&nbsp;the new captain came under heavy scrutiny.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I actually think, with Hardik Pandya, everything away from the game is affecting him so much. He's smiling too much when he does the toss. He's trying to act like he is so happy. He is not happy. I have been there. I have been in the firing line. And I can tell you now, it affects you. If what's happening to Hardik Pandya," said Pietersen.&nbsp;

Ever since assuming the captaincy role at MI after a shock move from Gujarat Titans (GT), Pandya has been subjected to constant boos from the fans, including the home crowd at Wankhede.&nbsp;

"The boos we have been hearing just now and I know they are happy to see former CSK captain, the lion smacking him all over the park, it hurts you. Because he has emotions. And he is an Indian player and he doesn't want to be treated like this. So, when this is happening, it's affecting him, it's affecting his cricket and something needs to happen," Pietersen added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-i-am-fed-up-mi-batting-coach-kieron-pollard-on-hardik-pandyas-performance-in-loss-vs-csk-711350">Also read |&nbsp;IPL 2024: 'I am fed up...,' MI batting coach Kieron Pollard on Hardik Pandya's performance in loss vs CSK</a>

The cricketer-turned-commentator also slammed Pandya for not deviating from Plan A when Shivam Dube was at the crease. Pandya did not bring any of the spinners against Dube as the match-ups favoured the left-hand batter. However, Pietersen quizzed if the rigidity shown by Pandya ultimately cost MI the match.

"What I saw this evening wasn't good enough. I saw a captain that had plan A from a team meeting that was five hours ago and a captain that didn't want to go to plan B when he should have gone to plan B. Like how on this Earth have you not bowled a spinner when your seamers are going for 20. Brian Lara said can we please bowl a spinner? Somebody needs to bowl here. You need to change the pace of the game," Pietersen said on Star Sports.&nbsp;

Pandya was also responsible for conceding 26&nbsp;runs in the final over where MS Dhoni smashed a hattrick of sixes to take CSK above the 200-run mark.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former England cricketer is of the view that Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya is masking his feelings by wearing a smily constantly to cope with the barrage of criticism coming his way.

Former England cricketer is of the view that Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya is masking his feelings by wearing a smily constantly to cope with the barrage of criticism coming his way. The veteran player said Pandya was 'smiling too much', acting like 'he was happy' when the truth was somewhat different. Pandya-led MI succumbed in the season's first El Clasico against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 20 runs where certain decisions taken by the new captain came under heavy scrutiny. "I actually think, with Hardik Pandya, everything away from the game is affecting him so much. He's smiling too much when he does the toss. He's trying to act like he is so happy. He is not happy. I have been there. I have been in the firing line. And I can tell you now, it affects you. If what's happening to Hardik Pandya," said Pietersen. Ever since assuming the captaincy role at MI after a shock move from Gujarat Titans (GT), Pandya has been subjected to constant boos from the fans, including the home crowd at Wankhede. "The boos we have been hearing just now and I know they are happy to see former CSK captain, the lion smacking him all over the park, it hurts you. Because he has emotions. And he is an Indian player and he doesn't want to be treated like this. So, when this is happening, it's affecting him, it's affecting his cricket and something needs to happen," Pietersen added. Also read | IPL 2024: 'I am fed up...,' MI batting coach Kieron Pollard on Hardik Pandya's performance in loss vs CSK The cricketer-turned-commentator also slammed Pandya for not deviating from Plan A when Shivam Dube was at the crease. Pandya did not bring any of the spinners against Dube as the match-ups favoured the left-hand batter. However, Pietersen quizzed if the rigidity shown by Pandya ultimately cost MI the match. "What I saw this evening wasn't good enough. I saw a captain that had plan A from a team meeting that was five hours ago and a captain that didn't want to go to plan B when he should have gone to plan B. Like how on this Earth have you not bowled a spinner when your seamers are going for 20. Brian Lara said can we please bowl a spinner? Somebody needs to bowl here. You need to change the pace of the game," Pietersen said on Star Sports. Pandya was also responsible for conceding 26 runs in the final over where MS Dhoni smashed a hattrick of sixes to take CSK above the 200-run mark. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2024: ‘Acting like he’s so happy,’ Kevin Pietersen on Hardik Pandya amid MI captaincy struggles

Former New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator Simon Doull thinks Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya is hiding an undisclosed injury. Newly-appointed MI captain Pandya didn’t bowl upfront in his side’s last two matches despite taking the new ball in the first three matches, leading to speculations of the reason behind it. Against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2024, Pandya bowled just one over, conceding 13 runs before taking himself out of the attack.

Doull, also a pundit on Cricbuzz, pointed out that Pandya perhaps has suffered an undisclosed injury and that is why he isn’t bowling, adding that he is refraining from admitting it.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-match-27-punjab-kings-vs-rajasthan-royals-match-preview-and-result-prediction-710726">IPL 2024, Match 27, Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals – Match Preview and result prediction</a>

“You go out and make a statement by opening the bowling in game no. 1, and suddenly, you are not required. He's injured. I'm telling you there is something wrong with him. He is not admitting it. But there is something wrong with him for sure. That is my gut feeling,” Doull said during a discussion on Cricbuzz.

Already suffering wrath from the fans in each game for his manner of appointment as Mumbai Indians' captain, taking over the baton from veteran Rohit Sharma, Pandya hasn’t performed to the best of his ability thus far this season. Let alone being effective with the ball in hand, Pandya has picked just one wicket at an economy of over 11. While batting, Pandya has scored just 129 runs in five matches, with his best being 39.

The fans at each venue, including at his home ground at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, have booed him for almost everything. The pressure seems to mount on the Indian youngster, who is keen to prove his credentials as a top star and a leader in the team.&nbsp;

<h2>No more injury, please!</h2>

Pandya has been an injury-prone cricketer, with his back being the most vulnerable part of his body. Following getting injured (ankle) during the Bangladesh tie in the 2023 World Cup in October, Pandya remained on the sidelines for over four months, missing all on-field action, including the Australia T20Is, away South Africa tour and Afghanistan T20Is at home earlier this year.

Since making his&nbsp;preferences of playing only white-ball cricket for India clearer, Pandya was not considered for selection for the England Tests.&nbsp;

The right-handed all-rounder trained and rehabbed at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru in the meantime and returned to competitive cricket during a local tournament DY Patil T20 Cup.&nbsp;

However, with the 2024 T20 World Cup beginning right after IPL 2024, Pandya’s fitness and form will be crucial for India in its quest to win an ICC title.&nbsp;

Former New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator Simon Doull thinks Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya is hiding an undisclosed injury. Newly-appointed MI captain Pandya didn’t bowl upfront in his side’s last two matches despite taking the new ball in the first three matches, leading to speculations of the reason behind it.

Former New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator Simon Doull thinks Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya is hiding an undisclosed injury. Newly-appointed MI captain Pandya didn’t bowl upfront in his side’s last two matches despite taking the new ball in the first three matches, leading to speculations of the reason behind it. Against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2024, Pandya bowled just one over, conceding 13 runs before taking himself out of the attack. Doull, also a pundit on Cricbuzz, pointed out that Pandya perhaps has suffered an undisclosed injury and that is why he isn’t bowling, adding that he is refraining from admitting it. ALSO READ: IPL 2024, Match 27, Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals – Match Preview and result prediction “You go out and make a statement by opening the bowling in game no. 1, and suddenly, you are not required. He's injured. I'm telling you there is something wrong with him. He is not admitting it. But there is something wrong with him for sure. That is my gut feeling,” Doull said during a discussion on Cricbuzz. Already suffering wrath from the fans in each game for his manner of appointment as Mumbai Indians' captain, taking over the baton from veteran Rohit Sharma, Pandya hasn’t performed to the best of his ability thus far this season. Let alone being effective with the ball in hand, Pandya has picked just one wicket at an economy of over 11. While batting, Pandya has scored just 129 runs in five matches, with his best being 39. The fans at each venue, including at his home ground at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, have booed him for almost everything. The pressure seems to mount on the Indian youngster, who is keen to prove his credentials as a top star and a leader in the team. No more injury, please! Pandya has been an injury-prone cricketer, with his back being the most vulnerable part of his body. Following getting injured (ankle) during the Bangladesh tie in the 2023 World Cup in October, Pandya remained on the sidelines for over four months, missing all on-field action, including the Australia T20Is, away South Africa tour and Afghanistan T20Is at home earlier this year. Since making his preferences of playing only white-ball cricket for India clearer, Pandya was not considered for selection for the England Tests. The right-handed all-rounder trained and rehabbed at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru in the meantime and returned to competitive cricket during a local tournament DY Patil T20 Cup. However, with the 2024 T20 World Cup beginning right after IPL 2024, Pandya’s fitness and form will be crucial for India in its quest to win an ICC title.

IPL 2024: Is Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya hiding an undisclosed injury? Simon Doull thinks so

Hardik Pandya has suffered enough wrath from fans for his appointment as Mumbai Indians captain in place of Rohit Sharma ahead of the 2024 season. His IPL teammate Ishan Kishan says it’s about time before he wins over them with his performance. The management’s call to remove Rohit and name Pandya as the new skipper irked the fan base with the crowd booing Hardik at every stadium he plays at.

Even at his home venue – the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, the fans continued booing him while he walked out to bat against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) the other night. Pandya played a handy cameo coming in at four&nbsp;to win the game for the hosts, their second in five contested matches thus far.

Reflecting on fans turning on Pandya, mainly for how he took over the captaincy from Rohit Sharma, Kishan said having spent a lot of time with Pandya, he must be enjoying this as a challenge, knowing he can turn this around with his performance this season.

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-ishan-kishan-opens-up-on-taking-break-from-cricket-and-t20-wc-spot-says-its-not-in-my-hands-710546">IPL 2024: Ishan Kishan opens up on taking ‘break from cricket’ and T20 WC spot, says ‘it’s not in my hands’</a>

“He [Hardik] loves challenges, he has been in this situation before and he is in that situation right now," Kishan said. “He is not someone who will come out and talk about it and say let's stop this or that. I know that he must be enjoying it. I know him personally.&nbsp;

“I have spent a lot of time with him. He is ready for the challenges because you cannot complain to the fans, they will come up with their explanations and their point of view,” Kishan added.

The young left-handed batter said Pandya would take positives out of this situation, and bring in his A-game to get the trust of fans back and accept him as Mumbai Indians’ captain. &nbsp;

<h2>Fans will love, accept Pandya as MI captain</h2>

"Knowing how Hardik Pandya thinks, he is happy with people doing it but I know that in the coming games, he will do it with the bat and people will start loving him [again]. People also recognise your hard work, and what you are going through and still you are doing so well for your team.

"Our fans will be a little harsh on you but at the same time when you do well, or when you show that it is [still] not bothering you and [that] you are in a good headspace, that might change. If not today, tomorrow. If not tomorrow, the day after tomorrow,” Kishan concluded.

Meanwhile, with two successive wins, Mumbai has climbed to the seventh spot on the points table.

They next face Chennai Super Kings in the home game on Sunday (April 14) evening.&nbsp;

Hardik Pandya has suffered enough wrath from fans for his appointment as Mumbai Indians captain in place of Rohit Sharma ahead of the 2024 season. His IPL teammate Ishan Kishan says it’s about time before he wins over them with his performance.

Hardik Pandya has suffered enough wrath from fans for his appointment as Mumbai Indians captain in place of Rohit Sharma ahead of the 2024 season. His IPL teammate Ishan Kishan says it’s about time before he wins over them with his performance. The management’s call to remove Rohit and name Pandya as the new skipper irked the fan base with the crowd booing Hardik at every stadium he plays at. Even at his home venue – the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, the fans continued booing him while he walked out to bat against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) the other night. Pandya played a handy cameo coming in at four to win the game for the hosts, their second in five contested matches thus far. Reflecting on fans turning on Pandya, mainly for how he took over the captaincy from Rohit Sharma, Kishan said having spent a lot of time with Pandya, he must be enjoying this as a challenge, knowing he can turn this around with his performance this season. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: Ishan Kishan opens up on taking ‘break from cricket’ and T20 WC spot, says ‘it’s not in my hands’ “He [Hardik] loves challenges, he has been in this situation before and he is in that situation right now," Kishan said. “He is not someone who will come out and talk about it and say let's stop this or that. I know that he must be enjoying it. I know him personally. “I have spent a lot of time with him. He is ready for the challenges because you cannot complain to the fans, they will come up with their explanations and their point of view,” Kishan added. The young left-handed batter said Pandya would take positives out of this situation, and bring in his A-game to get the trust of fans back and accept him as Mumbai Indians’ captain. Fans will love, accept Pandya as MI captain "Knowing how Hardik Pandya thinks, he is happy with people doing it but I know that in the coming games, he will do it with the bat and people will start loving him [again]. People also recognise your hard work, and what you are going through and still you are doing so well for your team. "Our fans will be a little harsh on you but at the same time when you do well, or when you show that it is [still] not bothering you and [that] you are in a good headspace, that might change. If not today, tomorrow. If not tomorrow, the day after tomorrow,” Kishan concluded. Meanwhile, with two successive wins, Mumbai has climbed to the seventh spot on the points table. They next face Chennai Super Kings in the home game on Sunday (April 14) evening.

Underfire MI captain Hardik Pandya will win over the fans with his performance, admits IPL teammate

The Economic Offence Wing (EOW) of Mumbai Police has arrested Hardik Pandya's stepbrother, Vaibhav Pandya, for allegedly cheating the Pandya brothers of over ₹4 crore in a business deal.

The Economic Offence Wing (EOW) of Mumbai Police has arrested Hardik Pandya's stepbrother, Vaibhav Pandya, for allegedly cheating the Pandya brothers of over ₹4 crore in a business deal. They arrested the skipper's stepbrother on April 10. Vaibhav has been accused of diverting around ₹4.3 crore from the company, causing a significant loss to the Pandya brothers. In 2021, Hardik, Krunal and Vaibhav established a polymer business with a predetermined partnership agreement. In the agreement, Hardik and Krunal had to invest 40 per cent each, while Vaibhav would contribute 20 per cent. The profit distribution was also supposed to take place in the same manner. ALSO READ | Monte Carlo Masters: India's Sumit Nagal bows out in second round despite impressive showing against Rune However, Vaibhav reportedly breached the agreement by discreetly opening another company engaged in the same business without informing his brothers. It caused a dip in profits for the original partnership. "Around this time, profits of the original partnership dropped, causing a loss of ₹3 crore. He allegedly diverted lakhs from the partnership firm's account to his own, taking ₹1 crore. Confronted by the cricketer, he allegedly threatened to tarnish his reputation," Times of India reported. Meanwhile, Hardik Pandya-led Mumbai Indians (MI) will square off with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on April 11. MI lost their initial three matches and won their first match on April 7. ALSO READ | 'Completely drained from 2023': Adam Zampa admits key reason behind skipping IPL 2024 Currently, the Mumbai Indians are in the eighth position in the points table. Hardik Pandya has been facing backlash after he joined MI as the captain, replacing Rohit Sharma. Vaibhav Pandya's arrest highlights the importance of following partnership agreements and ethical business practices. The case reminds individuals and businesses to act transparently and responsibly to avoid legal consequences. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Vaibhav Pandya? Why has Mumbai Police's Economic Offence Wing arrested Hardik Pandya's stepbrother?

Former India opener Navjot Singh Sidhu has backed underfire Mumbai Indians' captain Hardik Pandya to replace Rohit Sharma as India skipper in white-ball formats in two years. Pandya replaced Rohit as MI skipper ahead of IPL 2024, and Sidhu feels he's the right man to take over the reins from Rohit in the blue jersey. Sidhu also picked a player who could replace Rohit as captain in Tests.

Although the whole saga of replacing Rohit with Pandya as the new MI captain didn't go well with the fans considering several players were ahead of the India all-rounder in the pecking order for the same position, Sidhu thinks the selectors have made their call on going ahead with Pandya looking at the future.

Pandya led Gujarat Titans for two seasons since switching bases, guiding them to their maiden title in their debut season in 2022 while leading his team to their successive final in the next edition. On the other hand, Rohit Sharma captained MI for a decade, guiding them to joint five IPL titles. However, Pandya returned to his former franchise, with MI naming him the captain straightaway.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-want-to-come-up-against-him-maxwell-opines-on-drama-surrounding-kohlis-t20-wc-squad-spot-710172">'Don't want to come up against him' - Maxwell opines on drama surrounding Kohli's T20 WC spot</a>

"Hardik Pandya is the future," Sidhu said to India Today. "Rohit is now around 36-37. He has a couple more years left. He is a superb captain and a wonderful player. But, you have to actually look forward and prepare the ground for someone to take over."

"Hardik is your natural choice. That's why BCCI has named him the team's vice-captain," the former India opener added.

Speaking on who would replace Rohit in the red-ball format, Sidhu said Bumrah appears to be the right choice, having shown his credentials as a leader before.&nbsp;

"Jasprit Bumrah has been handling expectations wonderfully well. He was the natural choice for vice-captain. You can have Jasprit Bumrah as Test match captain," Sidhu noted.&nbsp;

<h2>Rohit to lead India in T20 World Cup</h2>

Following an excellent yet a failed 2023 World Cup campaign, where hosts India lost to Australia in the final, questions were raised around Rohit's future as India skipper across formats. However, the BCCI secretary Jay Shah put every speculation under the mat by confirming Rohit as the leader at the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA, starting&nbsp;June 1.

With Rohit certain to lead the Men in Blue in the marquee event, the India veteran might continue across other two formats, meaning he could remain India skipper in ODIs and Tests at least until the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy in February.&nbsp;

Former India opener Navjot Singh Sidhu has backed underfire Mumbai Indians' captain Hardik Pandya to replace Rohit Sharma as India skipper in white-ball formats in two years.

Former India opener Navjot Singh Sidhu has backed underfire Mumbai Indians' captain Hardik Pandya to replace Rohit Sharma as India skipper in white-ball formats in two years. Pandya replaced Rohit as MI skipper ahead of IPL 2024, and Sidhu feels he's the right man to take over the reins from Rohit in the blue jersey. Sidhu also picked a player who could replace Rohit as captain in Tests. Although the whole saga of replacing Rohit with Pandya as the new MI captain didn't go well with the fans considering several players were ahead of the India all-rounder in the pecking order for the same position, Sidhu thinks the selectors have made their call on going ahead with Pandya looking at the future. Pandya led Gujarat Titans for two seasons since switching bases, guiding them to their maiden title in their debut season in 2022 while leading his team to their successive final in the next edition. On the other hand, Rohit Sharma captained MI for a decade, guiding them to joint five IPL titles. However, Pandya returned to his former franchise, with MI naming him the captain straightaway. ALSO READ: 'Don't want to come up against him' - Maxwell opines on drama surrounding Kohli's T20 WC spot "Hardik Pandya is the future," Sidhu said to India Today. "Rohit is now around 36-37. He has a couple more years left. He is a superb captain and a wonderful player. But, you have to actually look forward and prepare the ground for someone to take over." "Hardik is your natural choice. That's why BCCI has named him the team's vice-captain," the former India opener added. Speaking on who would replace Rohit in the red-ball format, Sidhu said Bumrah appears to be the right choice, having shown his credentials as a leader before. "Jasprit Bumrah has been handling expectations wonderfully well. He was the natural choice for vice-captain. You can have Jasprit Bumrah as Test match captain," Sidhu noted. Rohit to lead India in T20 World Cup Following an excellent yet a failed 2023 World Cup campaign, where hosts India lost to Australia in the final, questions were raised around Rohit's future as India skipper across formats. However, the BCCI secretary Jay Shah put every speculation under the mat by confirming Rohit as the leader at the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA, starting June 1. With Rohit certain to lead the Men in Blue in the marquee event, the India veteran might continue across other two formats, meaning he could remain India skipper in ODIs and Tests at least until the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy in February.

'Hardik is your natural choice' - Navjot Sidhu backs underfire MI captain to replace Rohit as India skipper

It has not been a happy start to the Indian Premier League (IPL) for Mumbai Indians as they sit at the bottom of the table after three defeats in the opening three matches of the tournament. While two defeats were close calls, Mumbai were beaten in a one-sided affair in their first home game where new captain Hardik Pandya faced backlash from the fans. During the match against Rajasthan Royals, Rohit was given good backing by the fans despite his golden duck. Reflecting on this, former Australia player Adam Gilchrist highlighted the importance of Rohit who has a special place in MI fans.

<h2>Adam Gilchrist highlights Rohit’s importance</h2>

"It shows you the status that Rohit Sharma has in the game there. The mysterious manner with which it all played out initially, the pace with which it happened, everyone was stunned with Mumbai getting Hardik Pandya away from Gujarat and then Rohit relinquishing captaincy. It's an odd one. But this is the nature of the beast in the IPL. The tribalism and intensity within fan bases. It's hard to replicate anywhere else with that level of intensity," Gilchrist said on the Club Prarie Fire podcast.

Hardik was controversially handed the Mumbai Indians’ captaincy in December having made a swift return to the franchise on the trade window deadline day in November. His appointment raised eyebrows in the MI camp, as he took&nbsp;over from Rohit who had led the franchise to five IPL titles previously.

Mumbai lost two close encounters at the start of the IPL 2024 campaign losing to Gujarat Titans (GT) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). In Hardik’s debut match as skipper MI lost by six runs to his former side while despite scoring 246 against SRH, they were second best by 31 runs in Hyderabad.

In their third match of the season, also their first on home turf, Mumbai were beaten convincingly by Rajasthan Royals. They lost by six wickets in the one-sided contest which paved the way for their third defeat of the campaign.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-lsg-speedster-mayank-yadav-recalls-advice-from-senior-india-pacer-ishant-sharma-707307">IPL 2024: LSG speedster Mayank Yadav recalls advice from senior India pacer Ishant Sharma</a>

<h2>Mumbai Indians’ next five matches</h2>

Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals, April 7

Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru, April 11

Mumbai Indians vs Chennai Super Kings, April 14

Punjab Kings vs Mumbai Indians, April 18

Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians, April 22

It has not been a happy start to the Indian Premier League (IPL) for Mumbai Indians as they sit at the bottom of the table after three defeats in the opening three matches of the tournament.

It has not been a happy start to the Indian Premier League (IPL) for Mumbai Indians as they sit at the bottom of the table after three defeats in the opening three matches of the tournament. While two defeats were close calls, Mumbai were beaten in a one-sided affair in their first home game where new captain Hardik Pandya faced backlash from the fans. During the match against Rajasthan Royals, Rohit was given good backing by the fans despite his golden duck. Reflecting on this, former Australia player Adam Gilchrist highlighted the importance of Rohit who has a special place in MI fans. Adam Gilchrist highlights Rohit’s importance "It shows you the status that Rohit Sharma has in the game there. The mysterious manner with which it all played out initially, the pace with which it happened, everyone was stunned with Mumbai getting Hardik Pandya away from Gujarat and then Rohit relinquishing captaincy. It's an odd one. But this is the nature of the beast in the IPL. The tribalism and intensity within fan bases. It's hard to replicate anywhere else with that level of intensity," Gilchrist said on the Club Prarie Fire podcast. Hardik was controversially handed the Mumbai Indians’ captaincy in December having made a swift return to the franchise on the trade window deadline day in November. His appointment raised eyebrows in the MI camp, as he took over from Rohit who had led the franchise to five IPL titles previously. Mumbai lost two close encounters at the start of the IPL 2024 campaign losing to Gujarat Titans (GT) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). In Hardik’s debut match as skipper MI lost by six runs to his former side while despite scoring 246 against SRH, they were second best by 31 runs in Hyderabad. In their third match of the season, also their first on home turf, Mumbai were beaten convincingly by Rajasthan Royals. They lost by six wickets in the one-sided contest which paved the way for their third defeat of the campaign. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: LSG speedster Mayank Yadav recalls advice from senior India pacer Ishant Sharma Mumbai Indians’ next five matches Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals, April 7 Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru, April 11 Mumbai Indians vs Chennai Super Kings, April 14 Punjab Kings vs Mumbai Indians, April 18 Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians, April 22

IPL 2024: Australian legend underlines Rohit Sharma’s importance to Mumbai Indians’ fans despite torrid start

Mumbai Indians’ season has got off to a torrid start once again as the five-time champions sit at the bottom of the Indian Premier League (IPL) standings after three straight defeats. Now on a task to revive their fortunes for the rest of the IPL 2024 season, Mumbai Indians have landed in Gujarat’s Jamnagar to recharge their batteries ahead of a tough couple of weeks. Hardik Pandya and Co were spotted in Jamnagar with the team not in action till Sunday (April 7) when they take in Delhi Capitals in their second home game.

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Captain Rohit Sharma spotted at Jamnagar with his family and other MI player before their big match at Wankhede Stadium against DC. Source close to MI reveals it's a planned break, part of their schedule. 
 
What will Do mumbai Indians in Jamnagar now? 
 
<a href="https://t.co/zfbwVXXwqV">pic.twitter.com/zfbwVXXwqV</a>
— 𝐑𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐢𝐢⁴⁵ (@rushiii_12) <a href="https://twitter.com/rushiii_12/status/1775271451781890420?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Hardik &amp; Co land in Jamnagar</h2>

On Wednesday (April 3), the Mumbai Indians team arrived in the district of Jamnagar as they looked to regroup. Mumbai have lost three matches under the captaincy of Hardik Pandya and have been in sixes and sevens at the start of the season. Players like Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan were spotted arriving at the airport with the former also accompanied by his wife Ritika Sajdeh and daughter. The players were also accompanied by coaches and other backroom staff members.

Mumbai lost two close encounters at the start of the IPL 2024 campaign after losing to Gujarat Titans (GT) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). In Hardik’s debut match as skipper, MI lost by six runs to his former side while despite scoring 246 against SRH, they were second best by 31 runs in Hyderabad.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-lsg-seamer-shivam-mavi-ruled-out-due-to-injury-says-will-keep-cheering-for-team-707258">IPL 2024: LSG seamer Shivam Mavi ruled out due to injury, says ‘will keep cheering for team’</a>

In their third match of the season, also their first on home turf, Mumbai were beaten convincingly by Rajasthan Royals. They lost by six wickets in the one-sided contest which turned out to be their third defeat of the campaign.

Despite the defeat, Mumbai can still retain lots of confidence from their previous campaigns having come back from vulnerable situations to reach the playoffs. In 2008 they lost the first four matches and followed with six consecutive wins.

<h2>Mumbai Indians’ next five matches</h2>

Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals, April 7

Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru, April 11

Mumbai Indians vs Chennai Super Kings, April 14

Punjab Kings vs Mumbai Indians, April 18

Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians, April 22

Mumbai Indians’ season has got off to a torrid start once again as the five-time champions sit at the bottom of the Indian Premier League (IPL) standings after three straight defeats.

Mumbai Indians’ season has got off to a torrid start once again as the five-time champions sit at the bottom of the Indian Premier League (IPL) standings after three straight defeats. Now on a task to revive their fortunes for the rest of the IPL 2024 season, Mumbai Indians have landed in Gujarat’s Jamnagar to recharge their batteries ahead of a tough couple of weeks. Hardik Pandya and Co were spotted in Jamnagar with the team not in action till Sunday (April 7) when they take in Delhi Capitals in their second home game. Captain Rohit Sharma spotted at Jamnagar with his family and other MI player before their big match at Wankhede Stadium against DC. Source close to MI reveals it's a planned break, part of their schedule. What will Do mumbai Indians in Jamnagar now? pic.twitter.com/zfbwVXXwqV — 𝐑𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐢𝐢⁴⁵ (@rushiii_12) April 2, 2024 × Hardik & Co land in Jamnagar On Wednesday (April 3), the Mumbai Indians team arrived in the district of Jamnagar as they looked to regroup. Mumbai have lost three matches under the captaincy of Hardik Pandya and have been in sixes and sevens at the start of the season. Players like Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan were spotted arriving at the airport with the former also accompanied by his wife Ritika Sajdeh and daughter. The players were also accompanied by coaches and other backroom staff members. Mumbai lost two close encounters at the start of the IPL 2024 campaign after losing to Gujarat Titans (GT) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). In Hardik’s debut match as skipper, MI lost by six runs to his former side while despite scoring 246 against SRH, they were second best by 31 runs in Hyderabad. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: LSG seamer Shivam Mavi ruled out due to injury, says ‘will keep cheering for team’ In their third match of the season, also their first on home turf, Mumbai were beaten convincingly by Rajasthan Royals. They lost by six wickets in the one-sided contest which turned out to be their third defeat of the campaign. Despite the defeat, Mumbai can still retain lots of confidence from their previous campaigns having come back from vulnerable situations to reach the playoffs. In 2008 they lost the first four matches and followed with six consecutive wins. Mumbai Indians’ next five matches Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals, April 7 Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru, April 11 Mumbai Indians vs Chennai Super Kings, April 14 Punjab Kings vs Mumbai Indians, April 18 Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians, April 22

IPL 2024: Hardik Pandya-led MI land in Jamnagar to regroup following shaky start - WATCH

It was yet another evening to forget for Mumbai Indians after they suffered their third consecutive defeat in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) on Monday (April 1). This time it was Riyan Parag and Rajasthan Royals who handed them the loss after the former scored an unbeaten 54 off 29 to guide his team home for a six-wicket win. The Indian batter has been in superb form at No.4 having continued his exploits from the recently concluded Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) where he was batting at the same position.

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Loving this from <a href="https://twitter.com/ParagRiyan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ParagRiyan</a>💗 <a href="https://t.co/RpuiDMddQg">pic.twitter.com/RpuiDMddQg</a>
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals/status/1774879718325584353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Riyan opens up on impressive show in SMAT</h2>

"When I play domestically, this is the exact type of situation I go in to bat," Riyan told the host broadcaster after the game. "When Jos [Buttler] bhai got out and Ash [R Ashwin] bhai got out a little after, I was like 'this is what I do, this is what I've been doing for the last six months playing domestic cricket'. So it was pretty simple to calculate everything."

“I went back after the [last] season and practised very hard, and I think that's showing now. I've practised [against] these types of quick balls and these kinds of scenarios a lot, hence the performances,” Riyan added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-hardik-pandya-booed-at-wankhede-as-manjrekar-comes-to-his-rescue-warns-crowd-to-behave-watch-706613">IPL 2024: Hardik Pandya booed at Wankhede as Manjrekar comes to his rescue, warns crowd to ‘behave’ - Watch</a>

<h2>Riyan leads Orange Cap race</h2>

Needing just 126 runs to win in 20 overs, Mumbai Indians were never in the contest having lost momentum at the start. Rajasthan on the other hand had a superb show with both bat and ball with Riyan’s fifty seeing him go level with Virat Kohli for most runs in IPL 2024. He now has 181 runs in three matches, same as&nbsp;Virat who will be in action later on Tuesday against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Bengaluru.

A better average saw Riyan leapfrog the duo and will be looking for an impressive run in the side as he continues to hunt for a place in the Indian team for the T20 World Cup. Riyan will also be eyeing a place in the Indian side that will tour Zimbabwe in July if he misses out on a place in the World Cup.

After Monday’s win, RR remain the only unbeaten side in the IPL 2024 and sit on top of the pile with three wins in three matches. They will next face Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on Saturday (April 6).

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It was yet another evening to forget for Mumbai Indians after they suffered their third consecutive defeat in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) on Monday (April 1).

It was yet another evening to forget for Mumbai Indians after they suffered their third consecutive defeat in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) on Monday (April 1). This time it was Riyan Parag and Rajasthan Royals who handed them the loss after the former scored an unbeaten 54 off 29 to guide his team home for a six-wicket win. The Indian batter has been in superb form at No.4 having continued his exploits from the recently concluded Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) where he was batting at the same position. Loving this from @ParagRiyan💗 pic.twitter.com/RpuiDMddQg — Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) April 1, 2024 × Riyan opens up on impressive show in SMAT "When I play domestically, this is the exact type of situation I go in to bat," Riyan told the host broadcaster after the game. "When Jos [Buttler] bhai got out and Ash [R Ashwin] bhai got out a little after, I was like 'this is what I do, this is what I've been doing for the last six months playing domestic cricket'. So it was pretty simple to calculate everything." “I went back after the [last] season and practised very hard, and I think that's showing now. I've practised [against] these types of quick balls and these kinds of scenarios a lot, hence the performances,” Riyan added. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: Hardik Pandya booed at Wankhede as Manjrekar comes to his rescue, warns crowd to ‘behave’ - Watch Riyan leads Orange Cap race Needing just 126 runs to win in 20 overs, Mumbai Indians were never in the contest having lost momentum at the start. Rajasthan on the other hand had a superb show with both bat and ball with Riyan’s fifty seeing him go level with Virat Kohli for most runs in IPL 2024. He now has 181 runs in three matches, same as Virat who will be in action later on Tuesday against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Bengaluru. A better average saw Riyan leapfrog the duo and will be looking for an impressive run in the side as he continues to hunt for a place in the Indian team for the T20 World Cup. Riyan will also be eyeing a place in the Indian side that will tour Zimbabwe in July if he misses out on a place in the World Cup. After Monday’s win, RR remain the only unbeaten side in the IPL 2024 and sit on top of the pile with three wins in three matches. They will next face Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on Saturday (April 6).

IPL 2024: Riyan Parag reaps rewards at No. 4 for Rajasthan Royals, continues impressive showing from SMAT

Former Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary feels Mumbai Indians (MI) might go back to Rohit Sharma as the captain after Hardik Pandya's struggles in the IPL 2024 edition. After their first three games, MI remain winless and are, in fact, the only team yet to get off the mark in the ten-team tournament. On Monday evening (April 1), Hardik-led Mumbai hosted Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, and lost the game by six wickets after only managing 122/9. As they are at the bottom of the points table, Tiwary feels the MI owners can go back to Rohit.&nbsp;

Speaking on Cricbuzz, after Mumbai's loss to Sanju Samson-led RR, Tiwary pointed out, "Mumbai's captaincy could be handed back to Rohit Sharma. What I understand is that the owners of Mumbai Indians don't hesitate in making decisions. They made the call of taking the captaincy from Rohit and giving it to Hardik Pandya despite Rohit winning five IPL titles for them."

<iframe allow="attribution-reporting" aria-label="Advertisement" data-google-container-id="7" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" scrolling="no" tabindex="0" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-bcci-announces-rescheduling-of-kkr-vs-rr-gt-vs-dc-matches-706873">IPL 2024: BCCI announces rescheduling of KKR vs RR, GT vs DC matches. Check details</a>

<h2>'The captaincy has not been great'</h2>

He further added, "Changing the captain is a very big call. They have not picked up a single point this season. And the captaincy is also all over the place, it's not just bad luck and the captaincy has been very good, that's not the case. The captaincy has not been great."

Hardik's captaincy has come under the scanner in this IPL season. His way of using his bowlers has&nbsp;not been well received whereas the all-rounder has not been any such impact as an all-rounder as well. It will be interesting to see if the Mumbai owners make a call on captaincy in the coming days.&nbsp;

MI will now gear up to host Delhi Capitals (DC) on Sunday afternoon (April 7) and hope to get their first points of the season.

Former Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary feels Mumbai Indians (MI) might go back to Rohit Sharma as the captain after Hardik Pandya's struggles in the IPL 2024 edition.

Former Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary feels Mumbai Indians (MI) might go back to Rohit Sharma as the captain after Hardik Pandya's struggles in the IPL 2024 edition. After their first three games, MI remain winless and are, in fact, the only team yet to get off the mark in the ten-team tournament. On Monday evening (April 1), Hardik-led Mumbai hosted Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, and lost the game by six wickets after only managing 122/9. As they are at the bottom of the points table, Tiwary feels the MI owners can go back to Rohit. Speaking on Cricbuzz, after Mumbai's loss to Sanju Samson-led RR, Tiwary pointed out, "Mumbai's captaincy could be handed back to Rohit Sharma. What I understand is that the owners of Mumbai Indians don't hesitate in making decisions. They made the call of taking the captaincy from Rohit and giving it to Hardik Pandya despite Rohit winning five IPL titles for them." Also read: IPL 2024: BCCI announces rescheduling of KKR vs RR, GT vs DC matches. Check details 'The captaincy has not been great' He further added, "Changing the captain is a very big call. They have not picked up a single point this season. And the captaincy is also all over the place, it's not just bad luck and the captaincy has been very good, that's not the case. The captaincy has not been great." Hardik's captaincy has come under the scanner in this IPL season. His way of using his bowlers has not been well received whereas the all-rounder has not been any such impact as an all-rounder as well. It will be interesting to see if the Mumbai owners make a call on captaincy in the coming days. MI will now gear up to host Delhi Capitals (DC) on Sunday afternoon (April 7) and hope to get their first points of the season.

IPL 2024: Former cricketer feels Rohit Sharma could take over captaincy from Hardik Pandya amid MI's woes

Mumbai Indians' (MI)&nbsp;struggles continue in the ongoing IPL 2024 edition. In match 14, on Monday evening (April 1), the Hardik Pandya-led Mumbai camp hosted Sanju Samson's Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Being asked to bat first, MI were at the bottom as RR rode on&nbsp;Trent Boult and Yuzvendra Chahal's three-fers and two scalps from Nandre Burger to restrict them to 122/9. In reply, the one-time winners closed the game in 15.3 overs courtesy of Riyan Parag's 54 not out. After the game, Hardik shared an inspiring post for his team.

The new MI captain Hardik wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "If there's one thing you should know about this team, we never give up. We'll keep fighting, we'll keep going."

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If there's one thing you should know about this team, we never give up. We'll keep fighting, we'll keep going. <a href="https://t.co/ClcPnkP0wZ">pic.twitter.com/ClcPnkP0wZ</a>
— hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) <a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7/status/1775051082399658041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-wont-earn-teams-respect-former-indian-all-rounder-takes-a-jibe-at-mi-skipper-hardik-pandya-706786">IPL 2024: 'Won't earn team's respect': Former Indian all-rounder takes a jibe at MI skipper Hardik Pandya</a>

Hardik is not having a good run in the IPL 2024 edition, facing the wrath of the fans at every venue, so far, after replacing Rohit Sharma as the MI captain. His own form has been dismal, having not made any impact with the bat and the ball. Against RR, he started a counterattack after Mumbai's early blows but fell for a 21-ball 34. Questions have also been raised about his leadership, with many pointing fingers at his rotation of bowlers.&nbsp;

After the latest defeat, Hardik said at the post-match presentation, "Yes, a tough night, we didn't start the way we wanted to start. I wanted to counter, we were in a decent position to get us around 150-160, but my wicket allowed them to get back more into the game, I needed to do a lot more. It's okay, we didn't expect such a surface, but you can't always have it as a batter, it's nice at times for the bowlers to have a say. It's all about doing the right things, (correct) results happen at times, at some other times it doesn't. As a group, we believe we can do a lot better, but we need to be a bit more disciplined and show a lot more courage."

After three games, MI are at the bottom and will now host Delhi Capitals (DC) on Sunday afternoon (April 7) and will be desperate to get off the mark in the season.

Mumbai Indians' (MI) struggles continue in the ongoing IPL 2024 edition. In match 14, on Monday evening (April 1), the Hardik Pandya-led Mumbai camp hosted Sanju Samson's Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Mumbai Indians' (MI) struggles continue in the ongoing IPL 2024 edition. In match 14, on Monday evening (April 1), the Hardik Pandya-led Mumbai camp hosted Sanju Samson's Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Being asked to bat first, MI were at the bottom as RR rode on Trent Boult and Yuzvendra Chahal's three-fers and two scalps from Nandre Burger to restrict them to 122/9. In reply, the one-time winners closed the game in 15.3 overs courtesy of Riyan Parag's 54 not out. After the game, Hardik shared an inspiring post for his team. The new MI captain Hardik wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "If there's one thing you should know about this team, we never give up. We'll keep fighting, we'll keep going." If there's one thing you should know about this team, we never give up. We'll keep fighting, we'll keep going. pic.twitter.com/ClcPnkP0wZ — hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) April 2, 2024 × Also read: IPL 2024: 'Won't earn team's respect': Former Indian all-rounder takes a jibe at MI skipper Hardik Pandya Hardik is not having a good run in the IPL 2024 edition, facing the wrath of the fans at every venue, so far, after replacing Rohit Sharma as the MI captain. His own form has been dismal, having not made any impact with the bat and the ball. Against RR, he started a counterattack after Mumbai's early blows but fell for a 21-ball 34. Questions have also been raised about his leadership, with many pointing fingers at his rotation of bowlers. After the latest defeat, Hardik said at the post-match presentation, "Yes, a tough night, we didn't start the way we wanted to start. I wanted to counter, we were in a decent position to get us around 150-160, but my wicket allowed them to get back more into the game, I needed to do a lot more. It's okay, we didn't expect such a surface, but you can't always have it as a batter, it's nice at times for the bowlers to have a say. It's all about doing the right things, (correct) results happen at times, at some other times it doesn't. As a group, we believe we can do a lot better, but we need to be a bit more disciplined and show a lot more courage." After three games, MI are at the bottom and will now host Delhi Capitals (DC) on Sunday afternoon (April 7) and will be desperate to get off the mark in the season.

IPL 2024: 'If there's one thing...': Captain Hardik Pandya's post on X goes viral amid MI's winless run

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