Former cricketer Irrfan Pathan recently criticized Hardik Pandya’s captaincy, especially during the MI vs CSK match, highlighting his decision-making with the ball as a significant reason for Mumbai’s loss. Pathan stated that not having faith in his bowlers, similar to Akash Madhwal, could hinder Pandya’s success as a captain.
In the match against CSK
Despite being prepared to bowl Madhwal’s over, Hardik Pandya chose to bowl the crucial final over himself. This decision backfired as Dhoni smashed Pandya for 20 runs in just four balls, ultimately derailing Mumbai Indians’ innings.
Pathan emphasized that Pandya should have shown more confidence in his bowlers, especially after Shreyas Gopal dismissed Rachin Ravindra. Instead, Pandya opted to bowl himself and conceded 15 runs in the over.
Pathan advised Hardik Pandya against considering himself as a death overs specialist and suggested avoiding bowling crucial overs towards the end of the innings.
Expressing his concerns, Irrfan Pathan highlighted Pandya’s lack of trust in his bowlers
Particularly Madhwal, and questioned his effectiveness as a death overs bowler. Despite Rohit Sharma’s magnificent century, Mumbai Indians fell short of CSK’s target of 207 runs, managing only 186 runs in their allotted 20 overs. While Rohit’s remarkable innings showcased his talent, MI’s defeat underscored the importance of strategic captaincy and effective bowling decisions.