Is Hardik Pandya Just a Headline Grab for MI?

Hardik Pandya's captaincy is under the microscope again, and this time, it’s Sanjay Manjrekar leading the charge. Despite a 99-run win over Gujarat Titans, Manjrekar argues that MI’s decision to bring back Pandya might have been more about headlines than solid cricket sense. His argument? Hardik thrived at Gujarat Titans largely due to Ashish Nehra's tactical genius, not just his own abilities.

The Mumbai Indians’ rollercoaster journey since Pandya’s return has been anything but smooth. A dismal 2024 season left them bottom of the table, but last year’s Qualifier 2 finish sparked hope. Yet, after a shaky start to IPL 2026, where they dropped four in a row, questions about Pandya's leadership loom large. Manjrekar believes MI should’ve reconsidered their approach and hired Nehra alongside Pandya for a winning formula.

In a world where franchises chase commercial success, Manjrekar's critique highlights the risk of prioritising bold moves over sensible decisions. Pandya’s past success wasn’t just about him; it was a team effort. Without a strong support system, MI might be setting themselves up for another underwhelming season. Can Hardik turn it around, or is it time for MI to rethink their strategy?