Hardik Pandya ( Photo source: X / twitter )
Mumbai Indians have had an underwhelming start to their IPL 2024 campaign, however, it is not something that’s new to the five-time winning franchise. What’s new is the incoming of Hardik Pandya as their skipper, replacing Rohit Sharma, a captain who had donned that hat for almost ten seasons, starting 2013. All the five championship seasons of the Mumbai-based franchise came when Rohit led the side, with the latest being in 2020.
MI are popular for having a slow start in almost every season of the cash-rich event, and have managed to turn up in the final four on more occasions than not. The Hardik & Co. had a similar start this time round as well, losing each of the three encounters they’ve featured in the seventeenth edition so far. However, in an attempt to change the franchise’s fortunes around, the skipper has taken a religious route to turn the tables.
In a recent video doing the rounds on social media, MI captain was seen worshipping his prayers at the Shree Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple, located in Somnath, Gujarat. Notably, the entire squad was last seen indulging in retreat in Bhavnagar, Gujarat after losing the game against Rajasthan Royals at the Wankhede Stadium, their home ground. Meanwhile, Hardik decided to visit the holy Hindu pilgrimage place, about six hours drive from Bhavnagar.
Watch the viral video of Hardik Pandya at Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple here:
Indian Cricket Team all-rounder Hardik Pandya offers prayers at Somnath Temple. pic.twitter.com/FKTulm7lLc
— Ravi Chaturvedi (@Ravi4Bharat) April 5, 2024
MI take on Delhi Capitals next
After an undesirable start to the 2024 edition, the former champions will cross swords with Delhi Capitals (DC) at Wankhede on Sunday, April 07 in an afternoon encounter. This will be the fourth league stage game for Mumbai, whereas, Rishabh Pant’s Capitals will be playing their fifth of the season.
Also Read: IPL Points Table 2024 | IPL Standings & Team Rankings
Both the sides will be desperate for a win, as Pant’s men look to overcome their 106-run loss vs KKR, while MI have all the reasons to get back to winning ways.