The beginning of IPL 2024 has been challenging for Mumbai Indians, as they’ve suffered two defeats in their first two matches. The franchise made headlines even before the tournament started due to Hardik Pandya’s surprising trade from Gujarat Titans and his appointment as captain, replacing Rohit Sharma.
However, this decision hasn’t yielded positive results so far, with a narrow loss to Gujarat Titans in their opening match and a heavy defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad, where they conceded 277 runs in 20 overs. Hardik has faced criticism from fans and experts alike, and his wife Natasa Stankovic has been subjected to trolling on social media.
Following Mumbai Indians’ 31-run defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 on Wednesday, skipper Hardik Pandya aimed to boost his team’s morale by stating that the toughest challenges lie ahead for the strongest contenders in the tournament.
In a video shared on MI’s social media platform, Hardik encouraged his team following their second consecutive loss and urged them to support each other through both difficult and favorable situations.
“Toughest soldiers get the toughest test; we are the toughest team in the competition, anyone who could have come close to where we reached as a batting group or just overall are us – let’s make sure we will help each other; worst or good, we will be together,” Hardik said.
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Mumbai Indians have had a rough start to IPL 2024, losing their initial two matches
Renowned cricketer Sachin Tendulkar remarked that despite conceding 277 runs, the match remained highly competitive. He further noted that Mumbai performed commendably with the bat during their innings.
“In the second half, in spite of scoring 277, 10 overs down the line, nobody knew who was a clear winner. The game was very much open. The target was very much achievable.”
”That’s a clear-cut sign that we have batted really well. So, let’s stick together, tighter. There are going to be tougher moments, we will stick together as a group and pull it through,” Tendulkar said.
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