[WATCH] Hardik Pandya Hits The Net Ahead Of IPL 2025

Mumbai Indians’ decision to retain Hardik Pandya as their captain for the 2025 IPL season appears to be a well-calculated move. The all-rounder has displayed exceptional form during pre-season training, leaving fans excited for what’s to come.

A recent video shared by MI on social media has further fueled anticipation, showcasing Pandya’s dominant stroke play in the nets. His signature no-look slogs, wristy flicks, and aggressive step-out sixes suggest that he is set to silence his critics and lead the franchise with renewed energy.

Ek se badhkar ek चाबूक shots 💥#MumbaiIndians #PlayLikeMumbai [Hardik Pandya] pic.twitter.com/iPX96r4LwL

— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) March 21, 2025

A Rollercoaster Career and Redemption Arc

Since making his IPL debut in 2015, Pandya’s career has witnessed several highs and lows. He led the Gujarat Titans to a title victory before making a controversial return to Mumbai Indians in 2024 for a staggering INR 16.35 crore. His leadership, however, came under scrutiny, especially after a below-par season where he averaged 18 with the bat.

Despite the criticism, Pandya seems to be turning things around. His recent performances in the nets indicate a resurgence, reaffirming the faith MI’s global head of performance, Mahela Jayawardene, has in his abilities. His effectiveness in the death overs, both with the ball and the bat, remains a crucial asset for MI’s game plan. With star players like Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Suryakumar Yadav forming the core, Pandya’s aggressive batting approach could set the tone for the season.

Mumbai Indians’ Campaign Begins Against CSK

Statistically, Pandya has been a game-changer in the IPL, amassing 2525 runs at a strike rate of 145.62 across 137 matches. As a bowler, he has delivered 1418 balls, conceding 2150 runs while taking 64 wickets at an average of 33.59. His all-round abilities make him a key figure in MI’s title pursuit.

However, MI’s campaign opener against Chennai Super Kings on March 23 could be a challenging one. Pandya has been ruled out of the first match, while Bumrah is also set to miss a few initial games due to an injury sustained during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. Despite these setbacks, the Nita Ambani-owned franchise remains focused on securing their sixth IPL title, with the tournament set to begin on March 22.

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