Mumbai Indians’ captain Hardik Pandya has finally broken his silence over the latest captaincy change controversy at the Mumbai-based franchise.
The all-rounder’s return to the captain post after replacing Rohit Sharma was formally announced, following which the player addressed a press conference organized by Mumbai Indians.
Hardik emotionally stated, “It’s a surreal feeling to be back. Everything I have known has been through this journey since 2015, and I never thought I would be standing here. Can’t wait to play at Wankhede again, my favorite ground.” Undoubtedly, the question of the captaincy issue had to be raised and pressed upon the returning player, to which Hardik responded by stating, “Captain of Team India is Rohit Sharma, which works in my favor.
Everything that this team has done, it’s all under his tenure and my job to take that forward. I have played my entire career under him, and I know that he never pulled his hand away.” It may also be worth mentioning that Hardik has announced that he will bowl this year as he has strictly limited himself to the bat. When asked about the fans’ reaction to the captain issue Hardik commented, “I respect the emotion the fans carry, but I cannot focus on this issue. I focus on things that are under control and not simply agitate the heart.”
On the issue of communication with Rohit Sharma, Pandya responded, “It has been kind of a hectic schedule so far, and I have not found enough time to talk with the skipper. However, once Rohit joins with the team, I shall sit down and have a chat with him.” All in all, Hardik Pandya’s return brings a lot of good emotions and expectations to Mumbai Indians for the new season.