Not an issue, 13 games to go: Hardik after defeat


PTI, Mar 25, 2024, 8:17 AM IST

Image credit: BCCI / IPLt20.com

Ahmedabad: Mumbai Indians’ new skipper Hardik Pandya Sunday took the six-run defeat to Gujarat Titans in their IPL opener on the chin, saying it was “not an issue” as there are 13 matches to go.

Pandya was not harsh on his batter Tilak Varma who refused to run a single at a crucial juncture when batting alongside Tim David.

Set a target of 169, MI ended at 162/9 in 20 overs after they looked on course for victory.

“Obviously we back ourselves to chase those 42 runs (in the last five overs) but it was one of those days where we see the score quite less in those last five overs, we lost a bit of momentum there,” Pandya said at the post-match presentation.

“It feels good to be back because this is one stadium where you can enjoy and feel the atmosphere quite lively and obviously the crowd was full and they got a good game as well.”

When asked about Varma’s refusal to run a single, the skipper said, “I think Tilak felt that was a better idea at that point of time. I completely back him. Not an issue, (we have) 13 games to go.”

Gujarat Titans’ new captain Shubman Gill was full of praise for his bowlers, especially spinners R Sai Kishore and Rashid Khan, who performed exceedingly well despite the dew setting in at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

“I think the way the boys held their nerves, and the way we bowled in the death overs, especially with the dew coming in, I thought it was special.

“With the dew, how the spinners bowled, they made sure we stayed in the game. It was all about putting on the pressure,” said Gill.

MI skipper Pandya won the toss and invited GT to bat first keeping the dew factor in mind.

Gill added, “We just wanted them to feel under pressure. The plan was to keep building the pressure and wait for them to make a mistake.”

Udayavani is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel and stay updated with the latest news.

Top News

Cow smuggler dead, six others injured after their vehicle overturns during police chase

Assam bypolls: Samaguri Cong candidate alleges rigging by BJP, demands repolling

Who in Congress has said Article 370 will be restored? Shah spreading lies: Kharge

All arrangements in place to ensure smooth darshan at Sabarimala shrine: Kerala police

Delhi pollution: Mothers’ group write to health minister, highlight respiratory issues among kids

Union Minister Joshi hands over 10 battery-operated vehicles to Puri temple

COVID-19 scam: Karnataka cabinet decides to set up SIT

Related Articles More

Surya gave me an opportunity to bat at No 3, wanted to repay his faith: Tilak Varma

Tilak Varma slams ton as India take 2-1 lead against South Africa with 11-run win in third T20I

Pakistan should stop playing cricket with India, says Rashid Latif

I’ve found ways and means to break it down: Ashwin on Smith’s batting

Blind T20 WC: Indian team eyes clearance from MHA, MEA; Sports Ministry clears travel to Pakistan

MUST WATCH

New Technology In Kambala

Lakshdeepotsava 2024 Shree Krishna Mutt

Punganur Cow

Rangoli design

Jagadeesh Nagaraj Kudupali Audio Viral


Latest Additions

Cow smuggler dead, six others injured after their vehicle overturns during police chase

Assam bypolls: Samaguri Cong candidate alleges rigging by BJP, demands repolling

Who in Congress has said Article 370 will be restored? Shah spreading lies: Kharge

All arrangements in place to ensure smooth darshan at Sabarimala shrine: Kerala police

Delhi pollution: Mothers’ group write to health minister, highlight respiratory issues among kids

Thanks for visiting Udayavani

You seem to have an Ad Blocker on.
To continue reading, please turn it off or whitelist Udayavani.