There’s a lot of buzz swirling around the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season, with many discussions centering on Hardik Pandya stepping up to lead the Mumbai Indians instead of Rohit Sharma.
Pandya’s appointment stirred up a mix of emotions, signaling a shift from Rohit Sharma’s seasoned leadership. While some fans welcomed the change, others felt it disrespected Sharma’s legacy as the captain behind five Indian Premier League titles.
Passionate supporters of Mumbai Indians and Sharma expressed their discontent online. Despite the uproar, Mumbai Indians remained steadfast in their decision, ushering in a new era under Pandya’s guidance. They’re determined to silence skeptics and carve out their path to victory in the upcoming IPL 2024 season, promising an exciting showdown.
Rumours swirled about tension between Hardik Pandya, Rohit Sharma, and the Mumbai Indians’ management due to the leadership change.
As the season’s kickoff on March 22 approached, Pandya and Sharma found themselves together at the same venue for the first time. A heartwarming video shared by the MI social media team captured the moment when Pandya spotted Sharma, embracing him warmly before sharing a laugh.
Earlier this week, Hardik Pandya expressed his anticipation for Rohit’s supportive presence whenever he requires it, suggesting a strong bond and reliance between them.
“Rohit Sharma is captain of Team India which helps me, what this team has achieved, was achieved under his leadership and I just carry forward. I played (my) whole career under him and I know he will always have his hand on my shoulder,” he said.
Pandya also mentioned that Rohit will remain a valuable mentor for him throughout the upcoming IPL season.
“It will not be any different, he will always be there to help me. This team, what it has achieved, it has achieved under him and I just have to carry forward that. He is going to have his hand on my shoulders,” said Pandya in a media interaction.
The touching moment captured on video, highlighting the bond between the two veterans, was warmly circulated by Mumbai Indians. Hardik Pandya and Sharma’s heartfelt hug just before the opening match against the Gujarat Titans resonated with fans worldwide, conveying a powerful message of unity within the team. Supporters everywhere have responded to the clip, sharing their emotions and connecting deeply with the heartfelt gesture.
Here are some of the reactions of the fans:
