Veteran Mumbai Indians spinner Piyush Chawla addressed the boos directed towards captain Hardik Pandya from fans during the ongoing IPL 2024 season. While Chawla emphasised the team's lack of control over crowd reactions, he assured that Pandya remains focused on the game. Hardik's return to Mumbai Indians as captain has been met with an unexpected reception. Fans, accustomed to Rohit Sharma's leadership and five IPL titles under him, haven't welcomed the transition. This disappointment seems to stem from a perceived lack of respect shown towards Rohit, who many felt deserved to remain captain. The discontent has manifested as boos directed at Pandya during both of Mumbai's opening IPL matches. Crowds at both the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad and the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad were seen booing Pandya whenever he appeared for the toss.
Fan frustration grows as Mumbai Indians struggle
The boos directed at Hardik Pandya haven't been the only sign of fan discontent. During matches, chants of "Rohit! Rohit!" have echoed in the stands, further highlighting the fans' preference for the previous captain. This vocal disapproval coincides with Pandya's underwhelming performances – failing to make a significant impact with either bat or ball in the first two games. Adding to the pressure, Pandya's captaincy has also come under scrutiny. Critics have pointed out tactical errors in both matches against Gujarat Titans and Sunrisers Hyderabad, which resulted in consecutive losses for Mumbai Indians. Currently rooted at the bottom of the points table, the team is facing a significant uphill battle. As they prepare for their next encounter against Rajasthan Royals at their home ground, the Wankhede Stadium, more criticism directed at Pandya wouldn't be surprising. Rohit Sharma's immense popularity in Mumbai creates a challenging environment for the new captain.
Piyush Chawla defends Haradik Pandya, hopes for fan Support at Wankhede
Chawla expressed hope that loyal Mumbai Indians supporters will rally behind the team at their home ground, the Wankhede Stadium.
“You can’t really help. You can’t control the crowd. The way Hardik has taken it he is doing his bit and not thinking about the crowd,“ Chawla said.
“Spectator behaviour is beyond our control but I am hoping that the loyal Mumbai Indians fans will come to Wankhede and support us,” he added.
Hardik would look to recover from back-to-back defeats when five-time champions MI will next face Rajasthan Royals (RR) on April 1 at the iconic Wankhede stadium.
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