After a prolonged recovery from an ankle injury sustained during the ODI World Cup in October 2023, Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya is back in action, resuming batting practice sessions as part of his preparation for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. The star all-rounder incurred the injury while attempting to stop the ball during his follow-through while bowling in an ODI match against Bangladesh in Pune.
Pandya’s return to the field has sparked optimism, especially as the MI management has entrusted him with the captaincy, replacing Rohit Sharma. This strategic decision has received support from former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar, who believes that the move will prove beneficial for both the Mumbai Indians and Rohit Sharma.
WATCH: Hardik Pandya Shares Video of Practice Session Ahead of IPL 2024
Having missed the remainder of the World Cup, where India eventually lost in the final to Australia, Pandya has completed his rehabilitation and is now actively participating in batting practice sessions in the nets. The MI captain shared a glimpse of his return to the batting crease on his official Instagram handle, captioning the post with “Back at it.”
Gavaskar pointed out that MI’s decision reflects a forward-looking approach, considering Rohit Sharma’s age of 36 and the significant pressure he faces captaining India across all three formats. The transition to Hardik Pandya as captain indicates a strategic move by the franchise to groom a leader for the future.
Excitement is palpable among fans and pundits alike as Hardik Pandya returns to the field and assumes the new role of captain for the Mumbai Indians in IPL 2024. Anticipation surrounds the team’s performance, with Pandya’s dynamic skills and leadership potential adding a new dimension to the squad.
The shift in captaincy for MI aligns with the broader trend in cricket, where teams are actively planning for leadership succession and ensuring a seamless transition to a new generation of players. The combination of Pandya’s all-round capabilities and leadership qualities positions Mumbai Indians for an exciting and competitive IPL season, captivating cricket enthusiasts around the globe.
Also read: Mark Boucher Reveals Real reason why Hardik Pandya replaced Rohit Sharma as MI captain
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