‘Are Hardik Pandya- Tim David so bad..’: Virender Sehwag demands ‘severe actions’ on MI players

Virender Sehwag, the former Indian opener, has launched a scathing attack on the Mumbai Indians (MI) management and playing tactics after their latest defeat in IPL 2024.

MI IPL 2024 playoff hopes fade

KKR’s 24-run victory over MI has pushed the five-time champions to the brink of elimination. With eight losses in just 11 matches, MI’s playoff qualification now hinges on other teams collapsing while they win all their remaining games – a highly unlikely scenario.

MI batting order ft Hardik Pandya

MI’s batting woes continued, with only Suryakumar Yadav (56) managing a decent score. The questionable batting order decisions left Sehwag particularly bewildered. Captain Hardik Pandya came in at a lowly No. 7, followed by Tim David at No. 8.

“KKR saved Andre Russell; he played only two balls. Mumbai Indians saved Hardik Pandya and Tim David. What did you achieve by doing that?” Sehwag questioned on Cricbuzz. “Are these players that bad that they will get out if they come earlier?”

He further highlighted Hardik Pandya’s success batting at No. 4 for Gujarat Titans in IPL 2023, questioning the logic behind his demotion in the batting order.

Sehwag dismissed suggestions that MI might be experimenting for the IPL 2025 season. “If you’re thinking about 2025, you should consider who should bat at what place today. How can you think about the future right now?” he argued.

Mumbai Indians Management Must Take Responsibility

Virender Sehwag urged the MI management to take decisive action. “Management needs to take severe action on players and ask them what’s happening,” he stated. “The captain, batting coach, bowling coach, and support staff are all at fault here. Owners need to ask strict questions.”

With their season on the verge of collapse, MI face a crucial decision – stick to their failing strategy or revamp their approach in a desperate attempt to salvage some pride.