Mumbai Indians haven’t been impressive in the Indian Premier League 2024. They bounced back with two victories after losing three games in a row. However, they lost to Chennai Super Kings before returning to winning ways against Punjab Kings.

Almost all the players have contributed in some games, barring captain Hardik Pandya, the weakest link in the MI side.

He was Mumbai’s top performer in his first stint with the franchise. The right-handed batter contributed to the title-wining campaigns, with regular contributions in the batting and bowling departments. The star player joined Gujarat Titans in 2022 and didn’t disappoint as an all-rounder. Pandya also led the Titans to their maiden title in the same season. He was again on target in 2023, with GT making it to the final. They lost to Chennai Super Kings in the mega match, but Hardik was lauded for his consistency.

He decided to return to Mumbai in IPL 2024 and was traded back to the five-time champions. However, his second innings with Mumbai hasn’t gone as planned. Hardik has flopped as captain, and his performance with the bat and ball has dipped to an all-time low.

Pandya’s poor captaincy and below-par performances have led Mumbai to several defeats. In the recent game against Rajasthan Royals, he was dismissed after scoring ten runs off ten balls. Former India player Irfan Pathan, who has been critical of his display this season, once again slammed him.

“Hardik Pandya’s hitting ability is going down. That’s a big worry on a larger picture. At the wankhede he is different but on pitches where there is little help is what is worrisome for him,” he wrote on X.

If Mumbai fails to reach the playoffs this season, Hardik will be blamed the most as he replaced Rohit as captain.

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