The issue of captaincy within Team India’s white-ball squad remains unresolved. However, there seems to be a developing succession plan for the Mumbai Indians post-Rohit Sharma, with Hardik Pandya emerging as a leading candidate to lead the team.
Hardik Pandya returned to Mumbai Indians
After a successful stint with the Gujarat Titans, where he secured an IPL title in 2021, Hardik returned to Mumbai Indians, bringing valuable leadership experience. He played a crucial role in Mumbai Indians’ for IPL titles (2015, 2017, 2019, and 2020).
In an exclusive interview with IANS, Fernando stated, “I think Hardik going to MI is a good choice because he has the leadership qualities. I think after Rohit Sharma, he’ll lead Mumbai Indians, that’s what I feel.”
Fernando reminisced about the competitive spirit and positive dressing room environment during his time with Mumbai Indians, emphasizing the culture of senior players sharing their experiences with younger teammates. Hardik’s association with Mumbai Indians dates back to 2015, and his performances catapulted him into the Indian national team in 2016. His influential role in Mumbai Indians’ IPL triumphs from 2015 to 2021 has further bolstered his standing within the franchise.
Former West Indies batter Dwayne Smith, a member of the Mumbai Indians squad that won the IPL title in 2013, believes that Hardik’s return ahead of IPL 2024 has strengthened the team. In an exclusive interview on the sidelines of the Legends League Cricket (LLC) 2023 season, Smith praised Mumbai Indians’ culture and expressed optimism about the team’s prospects with Hardik Pandya’s inclusion, stating, “It is good to see him go back. I think it will make them a little stronger.”
The IPL 2024 Auction is slated to take place on December 19 in Dubai.
Mumbai Indians Retained Players
Mumbai Indians Retained Players: Akash Madhwal, Arjun Tendulkar, Dewald Brevis, Ishan Kishan, Jason Behrendorff, Jasprit Bumrah, Kumar Kartikeya Singh, N. Tilak Varma, Nehal Wadhera, Piyush Chawla, Rohit Sharma, Romario Shepherd (T), Shams Mulani, Surya Kumar Yadav, Tim David, Vishnu Vinod, Hardik Pandya.
