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In a momentous announcement that has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world, Mumbai Indians (MI) have named Hardik Pandya as their captain for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. This decision marks a significant chapter in Pandya’s career, especially considering his recent trade from the Gujarat Titans to rejoin his former IPL franchise, MI.
As the dynamic all-rounder took on the mantle of leadership, he replaced Rohit Sharma, whose captaincy had been synonymous with MI’s unparalleled success, boasting an impressive five IPL titles. This strategic move not only signified the trust and confidence the team management has in Pandya’s cricketing prowess but also marked a symbolic shift in the team’s leadership dynamics.
Hardik Pandya’s previous stint with MI
Hardik’s first stint with the MI that started in 2015 left an indelible mark on the franchise, as the dynamic all-rounder swiftly became a linchpin of the team, thanks to his explosive all-round displays. The Surat-born cricketer’s six-year journey with the franchise was nothing short of spectacular, contributing significantly to the team’s success.
In six years, Hardik clinched four IPL titles with MI, showcasing not only his prowess with the bat and ball but also his invaluable contributions to the team’s winning culture. However, the cricketing landscape witnessed a notable change in 2022 when the latter made a surprising move to Titans, where he assumed the role of skipper.
Hardik Pandya’s leadership span with Gujarat Titans
Hardik’s tenure with Titans, starting from IPL 2022 added a glorious chapter to his illustrious career in the tournament. At the team’s helm, the 30-year-old cricketer showcased his exceptional skills on the field alongside his astute leadership qualities. In a remarkable inaugural season for the Gujarat-based franchise, Pandya steered them to title triumph, elevating their status in the highly competitive arena.
The following year, in IPL 2023, Titans continued their stellar run under Hardik’s leadership, reaching the heights as they secured the runner-up position in the tournament.
Also READ: Top 5 all-rounders that franchises could target in IPL 2024 auction
Here’s how Twitter reacted:
To new beginnings. Good luck, #CaptainPandya 💙 pic.twitter.com/qRH9ABz1PY
— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) December 15, 2023
Mumbai Indians captain – Hardik Pandya. pic.twitter.com/IewpZNEbJZ
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) December 15, 2023
HARDIK PANDYA WILL LEAD MUMBAI INDIANS IN IPL 2024…!!! pic.twitter.com/lFVgaxhZmM
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) December 15, 2023
Rohit Sharma to Hardik Pandya.
The new era in Mumbai Indians starts after 10 years of the Hitman era. pic.twitter.com/VoTPQ731t9
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) December 15, 2023
I already expected Hardik Pandya to be MI captain 🤷🏻♂️
— VEDw (@IgnMaDCaP) December 15, 2023
From being injured to being the captain of Mumbai Indians. #HardikPandya pic.twitter.com/vKBkvn3cux
— Sagar (@sagarcasm) December 15, 2023
#MumbaiIndians will never be the same after replacing #RohitSharma unceremoniously as their skipper. #HardikPandya might be a good leader but Rohit’s legacy is something else. 🥹
A sad day for many MI fans! #rohitsackedpic.twitter.com/pTSAL9ca9P
— 𝘚𝘸𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘢™ (@Swetha_little_) December 15, 2023
Hardik Pandya is the new captain for Mumbai Indians#RohitSharma #HardikPandya #IPL pic.twitter.com/99qfuQOs2Z
— Neil Singh (@neilsinghifs) December 15, 2023
#HardikPandya replaced #RohitSharma to be captain for #MumbaiIndians
Reason : They Wanted to develop future generation captain
But if Dhoni being 42 can still play as captain an do well then they surely can give some more years to #Rohit before the captaincy transition!😞 pic.twitter.com/fDafDkoyvj— Mudit Jain (@TheJainMudit) December 15, 2023
