Rohit to replace Hardik as captain after seven games? Tom Moody opines on MI’s captaincy saga

Former Australian cricketer Tom Moody dismissed the possibility of Mumbai Indians reinstating Rohit Sharma as captain, stating their decision to appoint Hardik Pandya seems part of a long-term plan.

Moody said Mumbai Indians have no reason to panic after losing their Indian Premier League 2024 opener to Gujarat Titans on Saturday. He expressed confidence in the new captain gaining command as the season progresses. The two-time IPL-winning former coach emphasized Hardik Pandya must earn the respect of Mumbai’s talented roster immediately.

“I will be very startled if the captaincy changes suddenly after only five or eight games into the season, as that would demonstrate a lack of long-term vision. Despite the controversy and shock surrounding Hardik Pandya’s promotion to the captaincy role, especially for MI fans, I believe this decision reflects the franchise’s commitment to Pandya as a long-term leadership choice.” Moody commented on broadcast on the Star Sports Press Room.

Hardik Pandya’s return to Mumbai Indians ended in disappointment, as the 5-time champions lost a winnable match in Ahmedabad. The newly appointed captain had a difficult night, getting booed by the crowd and struggling with his bowling.

“During Hardik’s first game as captain, he appeared somewhat tentative and anxious, unlike the very relaxed and confident leader we have seen him be over the last couple years with the Titans,” he added.

The former SRH coach also spoke about Pandya’s equation with MI coach Mark Boucher, “Mumbai Indians are developing a new coach-captain relationship between Boucher and Pandya and that will take time to work effectively. Pandya faces challenges while stepping into the captain role in a major franchise which is surrounded by very experienced players. He must elevate his leadership even further.”

Chasing 169, Mumbai Indians needed a manageable 43 runs from the final 5 overs. However, they catastrophically collapsed, losing their last 5 wickets for just 20 runs to fall 6 runs short. Hardik Pandya, arriving at No.7, briefly threatened to snatch victory from Gujarat Titans in the final over. With 19 needed, Hardik launched the first two balls for six and four. But Umesh Yadav held his nerve, dismissing Hardik next ball to seal a dramatic win for Gujarat.