MI Senior Players Express Discontent with Hardik Pandya's Captaincy Approach: Reports

Following Sunrisers Hyderabad's triumph over Lucknow Super Giants on Wednesday at the Uppal stadium, the fate of Mumbai Indians in the playoff race was sealed, marking them as the first team to exit. With just four victories out of 12 games, MI's playoff aspirations were dashed.

Recent reports indicated growing discontent among the senior MI players with regards to Hardik Pandya's way of captaincy. In a recent report by Indian Express, it was reported that players have complained to the coaching staff of a lack of energy within the dressing room.

"These are typical challenges for a team undergoing leadership transitions, a common occurrence in sports," commented an MI official.

The report indicates that the discussions transpired during a team meal, with notable players like Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Jasprit Bumrah raising their reservations.

"When Axar Patel (DC bowler) was bowling to a left-hander (Tilak), the better option could have been to attack him," remarked Hardik in a conversation with the broadcasters.

"I believe it was a missed opportunity in terms of game awareness. Ultimately, it proved costly for us," he further explained.

Even if MI manages to win their remaining two games, they would only accumulate 12 points, having already suffered eight defeats. But the SRH win took them to 14 points in the standings. Delhi Capitals and Lucknow Super Giants meet on May 14, and one of the two teams is sure to go to 14 points, thereby keeping MI out of the race.

Elimination awaits the loser of this match, hence the PBKS vs RCB match has now assumed a "do or die" situation.