Hardik Pandya, the Mumbai Indians’ captain, issued a rallying address to his teammates after their second loss in as many IPL 2024 matches. The 30-year-old defined the franchise’s future as the biggest battle for the toughest troops, emphasizing his pride in the club.
The five-time champions had another night to forget on Wednesday, when the SunRisers Hyderabad won a high-scoring game at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. The Orange Army scored a record-breaking 277-3 in their allotted 20 overs, while the Mumbai Indians managed 246-5 despite their best efforts.
In a video posted on the franchise’s official social media account, Hardik Pandya told his teammates:
“The toughest soldiers get the toughest test and we are the toughest team in the competition. Anyone who could have come even close to where we reached as a batting group are us.”
Hardik Pandya
Hardik Pandya won the toss and ordered the SunRisers into bat. Travis Head went on to score 62 runs off 24 deliveries after Tim David dropped him at number five. Abhishek Sharma and Heinrich Klaasen both scored half-centuries, with Aiden Markram contributing a quick 42*.
“Even when the day was tough, I didn’t see anyone running away” – Hardik Pandya
Hardik Pandya praised the bowlers for trying to take the initiative and send overs down despite the difficult circumstances on the field. The baroda-born cricketer added:
“Something that I am really proud of is our bowlers. Even when the day was tough, I didn’t see anyone running away. Everyone wanted the ball in their hands, I think that’s a good sight. Let’s make sure we help each other throughout, whatever happens, worst, bad or good, we will manage it together. And we will be together.”
Hardik Pandya
Mumbai Indians’ next clash comes versus Rajasthan Royals on April 1 at Wankhede Stadium. The Royals kicked off impressively, defeating Lucknow Super Giants convincingly.