Hardik Pandya Reflects on MI’s IPL 2025 Exit
June 2 | Mumbai — Reported by Hritik Pandey
The IPL 2025 campaign is over for the Mumbai Indians — and it ended much earlier than fans had hoped. For the first time since taking over the captaincy from Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya faced the media with open shoulders and honest words.
“We really needed to pull up our socks earlier in the season,” Hardik said, speaking at the post-match press conference after MI’s final league game. “The intent was always there… but the execution just didn’t click. And in this tournament, if you lose momentum, it’s hard to claw back.”
A Season That Never Took Off
From the very first game, Mumbai looked off the pace. Their usually reliable middle order kept collapsing, bowlers struggled to defend totals, and team selection raised eyebrows more than once.
Pandya, under immense pressure after replacing a fan-favorite like Rohit, didn’t deflect responsibility.
“This franchise stands for excellence. I won’t shy away from where we fell short. We just didn’t play like the Mumbai Indians people are used to seeing.”
MI, a team that has lifted the trophy five times, finished outside the top four — a rare sight for a side so deeply linked to IPL success.
Reactions from Fans and Experts
As the results dipped, fan reactions on social media were swift and divided. Some supported Hardik’s courage in leading during a transition phase. Others questioned the timing and wisdom of the captaincy change.
Cricket analysts were equally vocal.
“MI lacked a clear plan at the death. Their bowling, especially after the 15th over, cost them games,” said one former Indian cricketer. “And the batting order kept changing — it didn’t help build rhythm.”
What Now for MI?
Despite the disappointment, there’s no panic in the Mumbai camp — at least not yet. Pandya says the season offered valuable lessons.
“You don’t grow without setbacks,” he said. “This was one of those seasons. We’ll regroup, rebuild, and come back with intent next year.”
Behind the scenes, however, changes are likely. The team management is expected to reassess its squad composition ahead of IPL 2026. Sources suggest a focus on balancing experienced heads with fresh energy, especially in the bowling unit.
Final Thought
Mumbai Indians may have stumbled this year, but their legacy isn’t shaken by one off-season. With a captain willing to take the blame and a franchise known for smart comebacks, writing them off would be a mistake.
Hardik Pandya has planted the seed. The next season might just be their strongest statement yet.
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