Hardik Pandya had his worst captaincy season in IPL this year. The all-rounder played exceptionally well as the skipper of the Gujarat Titans in the 2022 and 2023 seasons. GT won the championship in 2022 and finished as the runners-up in the 2023 edition.
Mumbai Indians owners would have expected Hardik to lead their franchise to their first final in three years when they paid a massive amount to recruit him in the trade window. However, Hardik had a completely off season as the captain and the all-rounder.
Under Pandya’s captaincy, the Mumbai Indians finished 10th in the IPL 2024 points table with four wins from 14 matches. Many fans think that MI will get rid of Pandya in the next season, but here are two reasons why Mumbai might retain him as skipper.
1. Hardik Pandya has got good leadership skills
Although Pandya could not lead the Mumbai Indians well this season, one cannot deny that he has good leadership skills. He led the Gujarat Titans to the trophy in 2022 and finals in 2023. Plus, he has also done a great job as the skipper of India.
Very few Indians have good leadership skills and the experience of leading multiple IPL teams. Hence, Mumbai Indians won’t mind giving a chance to Hardik in IPL 2025.
2. Rohit Sharma seems to have made up his mind to leave Mumbai Indians
The Hitman Rohit Sharma was the best option available with the Mumbai Indians to lead the team. However, coach Mark Boucher and the rest of the team management preferred passing the baton to Hardik. The move did not work in IPL 2024. However, if Rohit leaves MI next season, MI will need a new leader. Perhaps, they can back Hardik one more season and see what happens.
