Gujarat Titans have lost four games while winning three in the Indian Premier League 2024. The most recent defeat against Delhi Capitals was the most embarrassing, as the hosts were bowled out for 89 runs, their lowest total in the tournament’s history. Former India player Aakash Chopra highlighted how Hardik Pandya’s absence hurts the top-performing franchise.
Hardik joined Gujarat in 2022 after Mumbai Indians did not retain him. He was given the captain’s armband, and the all-rounder led the franchise to success. They lifted the trophy after beating Rajasthan Royals in the final. The team’s second season in 2023 started on a similar note, and the team qualified for the final. However, they failed to go past Chennai Super Kings and became runners-up.
In a surprising move, Mumbai contacted Hardik during the ICC World Cup 2023 about a possible return to the five-time champions. Pandya agreed but demanded captaincy in return. His demand was accepted, and the former T20I captain of India was traded to the Mumbai-based franchise.
Mumbai has failed miserably under his leadership, losing four matches and winning just two contests so far. Pandya has been a flop as a batter, bowler, and captain. Fans have turned against him for replacing Rohit Sharma as captain, and he is getting booed at every venue.
The home fans are going after him at the Wankhede Stadium. Meanwhile, Aakash wrote about Mumbai and Gujarat and how Hardik has impacted both franchises.
“Unpopular Opinion Hardik Pandya’s presence might not have benefited Mumbai Indians yet…but his absence is definitely hurting Gujarat Titans this season!!! #IPL,” he wrote on X.
Mumbai Indians will face Punjab Kings in their next game on April 18.
