Mumbai Indians management planning big changes, Hardik Pandya’s captaincy in doubt

MUMBAI: The management of Mumbai Indians is set to take strict action following the team’s poor performance in the ongoing IPL season. The former champions, who have not won the title for six seasons, are currently placed ninth in the points table. Only Lucknow Super Giants are below them. In this situation, the management is reportedly planning to remove captain Hardik Pandya from his position.

Pandya was appointed captain ahead of the 2024 season, replacing Rohit Sharma. However, in his first season as captain, Mumbai finished at the bottom of the table. The team reached the playoffs last season, but this year, they are almost certain to miss out. Reports also suggest that Pandya does not share a good relationship with some senior players. During this season, there were even instances of him having heated exchanges on the field with Jasprit Bumrah.

Despite having a strong lineup, the team has struggled to deliver consistent wins. Concerns over team harmony and leadership have prompted the management to rethink its strategy. Ahead of the next season, Mumbai Indians are reportedly planning moves to bring back former star Ishan Kishan and also sign young Rajasthan Royals player Vaibhav Suryavanshi.

The decision to replace Rohit Sharma with Hardik Pandya as captain before the 2024 season had faced strong criticism from fans. At their home ground, Wankhede Stadium, fans even booed Pandya. During away matches as well, crowds were often heard chanting Rohit Sharma’s name when Pandya appeared on the big screen. However, this hostility reduced after Pandya delivered a strong performance at a crucial moment in the final of the 2024 ICC Men's T20 World Cup.