Former Australian cricketer Adam Gilchrist questioned Hardik Pandya’s fitness after the Mumbai Indians skipper struggled in his team’s 20-run loss against defending champions Chennai Super Kings. Gilchrist stated that Pandya did not appear to be at his best, even though he took two wickets earlier in the match. Pandya faced criticism for his overall performance.

Australian legend Adam Gilchrist described Pandya as “proppy” in Aussie sporting lingo, suggesting he lacked fluency and fitness. CSK icon MS Dhoni smashed 20 runs off Pandya’s last over, including three consecutive sixes, as Pandya grappled to find the right line and length.

Gilchrist noted that Pandya’s bowling seemed unfocused and lacked the precision and steadiness required in IPL.

“The only positive aspect of Hardik Pandya’s bowling was his willingness to take on the challenge. As captain, he wanted to try it but did not look fully confident or fluent in his bowling or poppy,” Adam Gilchrist said on Cricbuzz.

Pandya struggled with bat and ball, taking 2 wickets for 43 runs in his three overs. He managed 2 runs from 6 balls with the bat.

Despite being criticized by cricket experts and fans, Hardik was backed by MI batting coach Kieron Pollard, who reminded fans that the all-rounder will play for India in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024.

Pandya, who struggled with the bat and the ball, was booed frequently during the match. Former England captain Kevin Pietersen disapproved, saying Pandya had been “smiling too much.”

The former Windies all-rounder stated that Mumbai would review their plans regarding Dhoni. He also mentioned that anyone could have fallen victim to the former Chennai captain’s assault.

On April 18, MI will take on the Punjab Kings in Chandigarh.

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