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The Mumbai Indians' dismal performance in IPL 2024 has not only resulted in their elimination from the tournament but has also triggered significant scrutiny and internal discussions regarding the team's leadership under Hardik Pandya. Following their early exit from the IPL, reports indicate mounting pressure on Pandya as senior players express reservations about his captaincy and the team's overall strategy.
Mumbai Indians, under Pandya's leadership, suffered a string of defeats, leading to their premature elimination from the tournament. The decision to appoint Pandya as captain earlier in the season sparked controversy among fans and within the dressing room, with some fans even booing Pandya during matches at the Wankhede Stadium.
Pandya's personal performance has also come under scrutiny, with the all-rounder failing to make a significant impact with the bat, scoring less than 200 runs and failing to achieve a half-century throughout the campaign. While he showed glimpses of his bowling prowess, his overall form remained inconsistent, reflecting the team's struggles as a whole.
The lack of consistency among star players, apart from Jasprit Bumrah, further compounded Mumbai Indians' woes this season. The team's senior players, including Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Jasprit Bumrah, reportedly held discussions with the coaching staff to address concerns regarding the team's performance and leadership direction.
One particular incident that raised eyebrows in the dressing room was Pandya's comment on Tilak Varma's innings during a match against Delhi Capitals. Pandya's critique of the team's game awareness didn't sit well with some players, highlighting potential rifts within the team regarding decision-making and strategy on the field.
Looking ahead, Mumbai Indians will play their remaining matches in the IPL to salvage pride, facing Kolkata Knight Riders and Lucknow Super Giants in their final fixtures. However, with playoff hopes dashed, the focus has shifted to addressing the team's underlying issues and preparing for the upcoming T20 World Cup, where Rohit Sharma will resume captaincy duties.
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