Hardik Pandya will captain the MI team for the first time in IPL 2024.
In a shocking decision, MI management had replaced their five-time IPL title-winning captain Rohit Sharma with Hardik Pandya. Pandya was captain of Gujarat Titans for two seasons in which he led the side to a title win in 2022 and the final in 2023. He was traded in by MI in an all-cash deal.
In the press conference, Hardik Pandya talked about the availability of premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah and said that he is relishing his reunion with his India teammate.
“Jassi (Jasprit) has been our no. 1 bowler and he has been a champion cricketer. Last year, they did miss him. This year, we are fortunate that Jasprit Bumrah is available and firing all cylinders. Very excited to have him back full throttle and him guiding the youngsters in the camp,” Pandya said in the press conference.
Meanwhile, MI head coach Mark Boucher remained guarded about the fitness of star batter Suryakumar Yadav and new Sri Lankan pace recruit Dilshan Madushanka.
“I will leave it to the excellent group of medical staff rather than micromanage,” the former South Africa wicketkeeper said.
Hardik Pandya confirmed that he will be bowling in this IPL for MI and will also be the finisher for the team.
“This IPL, I will play as an all-rounder and finish as many games as possible, enjoy the position I have always loved,” Hardik remarked.
(ANI inputs)