“Virat Kohli Encourages Mumbai Indians Fans to Acknowledge Hardik Pandya’s National Contributions at Wankhede Refurbishment”
Reinvoking the Spirit of Cricket in the 2024 edition of the Indian Premier League, Virat Kohli rallied behind Hardik Pandya as the former Royal Challengers Bengaluru skipper urged the Mumbai Indians fans to stop chanting against their franchise skipper on Thursday. Kohli gestured from the middle to make sure Pandya didn’t go through a hostile round of booing in match No.25 of the IPL 2024 between RCB and MI at the famous Wankhde Stadium.
Pandya has been facing the wrath of MI fans ever since the all-rounder replaced Rohit Sharma as the leader of the Mumbai Indians . Hardik completed his sensational switch to Mumbai from Gujarat Titans in an all-cash deal before the new season. Pandya was subjected to venomous reception by fans in Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Hyderabad. When a section of fans targeted Hardik at Wankhede, superstar Kohli reminded the MI faithful that the Mumbai skipper represents Team India in the international arena.
When Hardik walked out to finish the run chase for the Mumbai Paltan, the MI skipper was not at the receiving end of the hostile reception as Kohli told the Wankhede crowd to applaud their captain. Kohli’s incredible gesture to quieten the crowd became an instant hit among the fans. Fans and followers of the game also marvelled at Kohli’s sportsmanship on social media. Finishing things in style at a packed Wankhede, Pandya smoked a six to end the IPL encounter in Mumbai’s favour.
‘Blessed to have Bumrah on my side’
In the enthralling IPL 2024 clash, Mumbai Indians’ Jasprit Bumrah emerged as the Player of the Match for his remarkable five-wicket haul that significantly tilted the game in favor of the home team. Reflecting on the match, Mumbai’s skipper Hardik Pandya highlighted the pivotal contributions of Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan, whose solid batting laid the foundation for their team’s success. Pandya emphasized the seamless coordination within the team, noting that the players intuitively understand their roles without the need for explicit discussion.
Expressing gratitude for having Bumrah in the squad, Pandya lauded the pacer’s consistent performance and work ethic, emphasizing his invaluable experience and unwavering confidence. Bumrah’s relentless practice and remarkable skill set were instrumental in Mumbai’s triumph, showcasing the depth and talent of the team.
Author:- Apoorva Arora