In the near future, Hardik Panyda hopes to catch up to Rohit Sharma. Pandya remarked, “We haven’t seen each other for the last couple of months,” in reference to the Mumbai Indians’ captaincy change, which effectively split the nation’s cricket community. Since we are all pros, when the squad gets together, we will undoubtedly talk when he arrives.”
Pandya, who captained the Gujarat Titans for the previous two seasons, took Rohit’s place as captain of the Mumbai Indians. When asked directly if he had spoken with Rohit, Pandya’s response was a little evasive. “Yes and no to that (question),” he responded, adding, “because he has been travelling and playing.”
Pandya was a player for both the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise and the national squad under Rohit. In fact, at the Twenty20 World Cup in June, he will be Rohit’s second captain. He was Rohit’s vice-captain during the ODI World Cup the previous year.
“It won’t be any different, because he will be there to help out if I need his help,” said Pandya. “He is the Indian team’s captain, which is advantageous to me because it was under his leadership that this squad accomplished its goals. There won’t be any awkward moments going forward because everything will revolve around building on what he has accomplished. Having played for ten years under him, I am certain that he will be watching over me all season long.” Under Rohit, Mumbai Indians won five IPL championships.
Pandya responded to the criticism he received on social media by saying he could not control the uncontrollable. “I don’t focus on things that I can’t control,” he stated. “At the same time, we are appreciative of the fans since they have brought us a great deal of affection and recognition. I am thrilled, but I also appreciate their viewpoint.”
Pandya said that joining the Mumbai Indians again was like coming home, and he is thrilled to be back in the place where he began his IPL career in 2015. “Returning to the beginning of it all has been incredible, and the trip will go on. The welcome was fantastic—warm and energizing. It feels amazing; my adventure began here, and I never imagined that ten years later, I would be leading this side. It is really pleasant to feel.”
Additionally, Pandya revealed that he is healthy enough to bowl and that he is eager to end the games from the side. “In this IPL, I will be an all-rounder and I will try to finish and win as many games as possible.” Additionally, he believed that Jasprit Bumrah’s availability would greatly benefit the side. We are lucky that Jasprit Bumrah is available and performing so well this year. “We are thrilled to have him back at full speed, leading the children in the camp.” Last season, Bumrah’s back problem kept him out.
On March 24, Hardik Pandy’s maiden game as captain of the Mumbai Indians will take place in Ahmedabad against the Gujarat Titans, his former team. The first IPL game takes place on March 22 between the Royal Challengers Bangalore and the Chennai Super Kings.
