Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has questioned a key decision by Hardik Pandya during the Indian Premier League 2026, following Mumbai Indians' defeat to Chennai Super Kings. The controversy centers on Pandya's choice to hand the crucial death overs to young pacer Krish Bhagat, who proved expensive and allowed CSK to finish strongly.
Bhagat's Costly Overs
Bhagat bowled the 16th and 20th overs, conceding 31 runs, raising eyebrows since Pandya still had overs remaining. Ashwin expressed that the captain should have taken responsibility in that pressure situation.
Ashwin's Critique
"With Hardik Pandya, I don't have any personal relationship with him, but I always feel that he is a box office player. It is easy to say things about Hardik Pandya now, but today, when he gave Krish Bhagat the final over, I admit that Pandya went for 38 runs in two overs. But if a player can bowl the final over of the 2024 T20 World Cup against David Miller, you can bowl this too, right?" Ashwin said.
He added, "Krish Bhagat does not have that much experience, I like how he bowled, he did not do too badly, but Pandya can take up that pressure. What's the worst that will happen?"
Pressure and Form Concerns
Ashwin also pointed out that Pandya might still be dealing with the pressure of leading Mumbai Indians after replacing Rohit Sharma. "What happened to Hardik Pandya after he came to MI after the trade, was too much for an individual to handle. You replaced a great like Rohit Sharma, and got booed by his own fans in his own stadium. That is a lot to deal with emotionally. You are only as good as your team as a captain," he said.
Pandya's form this season has been below par. However, coach Mahela Jayawardene backed him, stating, "I don't think, to be honest. It is not a concern. He started well… overall, we haven't been consistent."
Mumbai Indians now look ahead to their next match against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
