Former India captain, 1983 World Cup winner, and former selector Kris Srikkanth believes that the Mumbai Indians have rediscovered their characteristic high energy and dominance, even in the absence of captain Hardik Pandya. Pandya has missed the team's last three matches due to a back spasm.
Hardik Pandya's Absence
Pandya first missed Mumbai Indians' home clash against Lucknow Super Giants on May 4. He then sat out the game against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Raipur despite traveling with the squad. In his absence, Suryakumar Yadav led the side. Pandya also did not travel to Dharamsala for Mumbai Indians' six-wicket win over Punjab Kings, where Jasprit Bumrah became the team's third captain this season after Suryakumar missed the game following the birth of his child.
Bumrah's Memorable Captaincy Debut
Bumrah's maiden outing as Mumbai Indians skipper turned into a memorable one as he guided the team to a six-wicket victory over Punjab Kings. Under Bumrah's leadership, Shardul Thakur picked up four wickets, while Deepak Chahar claimed two as Punjab Kings posted 200 for 8. Mumbai Indians then chased down the target in 19.5 overs, powered by Tilak Varma's unbeaten 75 off just 33 balls.
Srikkanth's Observations
Srikkanth felt there was a fresh energy within the side. "It is a good call. I think Bumrah coming in as captain is a fantastic move," said Srikkanth on his YouTube channel. He also noted a noticeable shift in the team environment in Hardik's absence. "Definitely, definitely there is some issue. Definitely, the team's mood was more lighter. The team suddenly looks more united overall."
Srikkanth added: "Surya too didn't play in that match. He was not playing the match for personal reasons. But whatever it is, the young side suddenly—like you are saying—they come and Deepak Chahar is bowling well. That Raj Angad Bawa fellow is bowling decently. Everyone is performing. Tilak Varma performed brilliantly. Ryan Rickleton smashed and dominated with aggressive shots early on. Overall, like you said, the will to win, the will to succeed. Even though they were down in the dumps, they showed the will to succeed. That is the key in cricket. That energy was there."
Bumrah's Relaxed Leadership
Srikkanth also highlighted that Bumrah looked relaxed on the field and backed the bowlers with confidence. "And if you look at the bowling too, even Bumrah was smiling continuously. He was giving lots of confidence to the bowlers. And I thought Bumrah's captaincy made a huge difference to people like Deepak Chahar. And of course Shardul Thakur, because otherwise, they bowl loose deliveries and leak runs. Today, everyone took wickets," said Srikkanth.
What's Next for Mumbai Indians
Mumbai Indians will next face Kolkata Knight Riders on May 20, with Pandya expected to return and lead the side again. Stay updated with the latest IPL Live Score, IPL news on Times of India. Follow the IPL Schedule, check the IPL Points Table, and track the race for the IPL Orange Cap and IPL Purple Cap.
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