Saba Karim Analyzes Hardik Pandya's Struggles as MI Captain
"Opposition Bowlers Have Worked Out A Plan To Him": Ex-India Player On MI Star's Batting Struggles
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Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya is facing significant challenges in the IPL 2026 season, with poor batting performance and pressure from leading the team. Former player Saba Karim suggests that bowlers have exploited his weaknesses, urging Pandya to reinvent his game to improve his performance.
- 01Hardik Pandya has scored only 128 runs in IPL 2026, averaging 21.33.
- 02Saba Karim emphasizes that opposition bowlers have identified Pandya's weaknesses.
- 03Pandya's captaincy pressure is affecting his performance.
- 04Karim suggests that other batters have adapted their games, unlike Pandya.
- 05Pandya took over as MI captain in IPL 2024, facing a challenging tenure.
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The Mumbai Indians are struggling in the IPL 2026 season, currently sitting second-last on the points table. Captain Hardik Pandya's performance has been particularly concerning, with only 128 runs at an average of 21.33 and an economy rate of 12.27 in bowling. Former Indian cricketer Saba Karim has pointed out that opposition bowlers have formulated strategies to exploit Pandya's weaknesses, particularly his difficulty with short deliveries outside off stump. Karim noted that the pressure of leading the Mumbai Indians is also impacting Pandya's performance, as he took over the captaincy in IPL 2024 from Rohit Sharma. Despite showing exceptional talent in the past, Pandya's current struggles highlight the need for him to adapt his batting style, similar to other players who have diversified their skills. Karim believes that if Pandya can reinvent his game, he can regain his form and help the team improve its standing.
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Pandya's struggles could hinder the Mumbai Indians' chances of success in the tournament, affecting fans and stakeholders.
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