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Hardik Pandya‘s tenure as Mumbai Indians (MI) captain has gotten off to a rocky start, both on and off the field. After two consecutive defeats to begin the IPL 2024 season, Pandya is facing a barrage of criticism from fans on social media.
Replacing Rohit Sharma as captain brought immense pressure for Pandya. However, the team’s disappointing performances against Gujarat Titans (GT) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have intensified the scrutiny. Fans have taken to social media platforms to express their displeasure, questioning Pandya’s leadership capabilities.
Video involving Hardik Pandya and Lasith Malinga sparks outrage
Adding fuel to the fire, a new video has gone viral since Wednesday, showing an interaction between Pandya and MI bolwing coach Lasith Malinga. In the video, Malinga appears to be extending a hug to Pandya after the MI vs SRH match, but Pandya seems more interested in shaking hands with the SRH players.
Here’s the video:
Does Hardik Pandya kicked Lasith Malinga? His hands, face reaction same story.
Not a good way to treat legend like Lasith Malinga. #HardikPandya #SRHvMI pic.twitter.com/Yg5a5hNRTE— Satya Prakash (@Satya_Prakash08) March 28, 2024
This clip has sparked widespread criticism. Many social media users alleged that Pandya has a habit of disrespecting senior players, connecting the incident to his treatment of Rohit Sharma.
Also READ: IPL 2024 – Social media users target Hardik Pandya’s wife amid MI’s successive defeats
The video has reignited a previous controversy where Pandya was seen taking Malinga’s seat in the dugout without acknowledging him. Fans expressed disappointment at Pandya’s apparent lack of respect for his seniors.
Pandya maintains positive stance
Despite the criticism, Pandya remains optimistic. Following the loss to SRH, he addressed the team’s performance, stating, “Toughest soldiers get the toughest test; we are the toughest team in the competition… let’s make sure we will help each other; worst or good, we will be together.”
However, Pandya’s motivational words might not be enough to silence the critics. Can he turn things around on the field and address the leadership concerns surrounding him? Only time will tell.