Hardik Pandya should stay away from social media, especially for now. Even though he doesn’t seem bothered by negative reactions from crowds during Mumbai Indians’ IPL 2024 matches, the negativity on social media is worse.
In addition to continuous trolling, criticism of his captaincy choices, and accusations of disregarding former MI captain Rohit’s advice, Hardik is now facing allegations of pushing Lasith Malinga, the legendary Sri Lankan and current MI bowling coach.
Videos circulating on social media depict Hardik pushing Malinga aside as the MI legend attempted to embrace him following Mumbai Indians’ defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad at Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Hyderabad. Instead of reciprocating the hug, Hardik opts to shake hands with the SRH players and support staff.
You can watch the video here:
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
Before the pushing incident, Malinga got up from his seat to let Pandya sit in the dugout while Pandya was getting ready to bat at No. 5 for MI. Malinga was sitting next to Kieron Pollard, MI’s assistant coach, and he moved away when Pandya came over, even though Pollard was initially going to stand up first. Then, Malinga and Pollard talked.
Fans were disappointed that Pandya didn’t intervene to prevent the senior player from relinquishing his seat even once. However, what fans may be overlooking is that Pandya was set to bat next, and it’s customary in the dugout to ensure the comfort of players in the playing XI.
Mumbai Indians fall short in a record-breaking match against SRH
Records were broken as Sunrisers Hyderabad unleashed a powerful performance to achieve the highest-ever IPL total of 277 for 3 against Mumbai Indians, securing a 31-run victory in a power-hitting showdown that bewildered bowlers on both teams.
SRH opener Travis Head (62 off 24) and batsman Abhishek Sharma (63 off 23) showcased an impressive demonstration of power-hitting, with Sharma swiftly claiming the franchise record for the fastest fifty from the Australian.
Heinrich Klaasen (80 not out off 34 balls) ignited the late surge to help SRH set a new record, breaking an 11-year-old milestone. The previous highest IPL total, achieved by Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2013, was 263 for five, also marking the highest total in any T20 league.
Mumbai’s bowlers were stunned by SRH’s barrage of sixes, but their batsmen displayed determination, turning what seemed like a one-sided affair at the innings break into a competitive match. Ultimately, they concluded at 246 for five in 20 overs.
This marked the second defeat for MI this season in as many games. Adding to the disappointment, Pandya’s form with bat and ball has been lackluster, with some of his captaincy decisions drawing scrutiny.
It appears the star Indian all-rounder will need to deliver a couple of solid performances on the field to silence the critics.
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