Star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya is gearing up for his return to competitive cricket in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. Hardik Pandya indirectly reacted to Rohit Sharma’s wife Ritika Sajdeh’s recent comment about the Indians head coach from Mumbai (MI), Mark Boucher.
A few months ago, the Mumbai Indians (MI) management surprised many by announcing Hardik Pandya as captain, replacing Rohit Sharma. Hardik rejoined the Mumbai-based team in a cash swap in November after two years with the Gujarat Titans (GT).
Mumbai Indians’ decision to replace Rohit Sharma as captain after his 11-year tenure has sparked controversy among fans, with many expressing outrage. It is worth mentioning that the 36-year-old batsman guided the team to a record five titles in the history of the tournament.
Taking it to the next level – Hardik Pandya
In a video shared on Instagram by Hardik Pandya, he is seen incorporating yoga, light bowling and batting exercises in his training routine. He seems to bowl effortlessly on the field, showing no signs of discomfort and showing good form from him.
Hardik Pandya suffered an ankle injury during the ODI World Cup 2023 match against Bangladesh while bowling his first over. The all-rounder landed poorly in his follow-up and was subsequently ruled out of the tournament.
In India people get quite emotional – Mark Boucher
Speaking on the Smash Sports podcast, Mark Boucher explained the decision to replace Rohit Sharma as MI captain. Boucher emphasized that it was purely a cricketing decision and would bring out the best in Rohit as a player.
“I think it was purely a cricketing decision. We saw the window period to get Hardik back as a player. For me it is a transition phase. A lot of people don’t understand in India, people get very emotional, but you know you have to take the emotions away,” Boucher said.
“I think it was more of a cricketing decision and I think it will bring out the best in Rohit as a person and as a player. Just let him go out there, enjoy it and score some good runs,” he added.
“One thing I learned from Ro (Rohit) is that he is a fantastic guy. I mean he has been captain for years and has done very well for Mumbai Indians. He now he also runs India. It’s just that he walks into a place and there are only cameras and he’s very busy and he probably hasn’t had the best couple of seasons lately with the bat, but he’s done well as captain,” Boucher stated.
There are so many things wrong with this – Ritika Sajdeh
Responding to a clip shared by Smash Sports, Ritika Sajdeh quickly expressed doubt about Mark Boucher’s explanation, stating, “There are so many things wrong with this,” in a comment on the post.
Ritika Sajdeh’s comment on Mark Boucher’s interview talking about Hardik Pandya taking over the captaincy of MI. (Crushing Sports Podcast). pic.twitter.com/5sAAVa5xVu
– Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) February 6, 2024
Also Read: Watch: Hardik Pandya sends a moving statement with his bowling ahead of IPL return