In the buildup to the highly anticipated IPL 2024 season, a leaked video featuring Mumbai Indians' new captain, Hardik Pandya, has set social media abuzz.?
The video shows Pandya expressing dissatisfaction with the catering provided during a shoot as it didn't meet his strict dietary requirements.
Despite being offered dhokla and jalebi for lunch, the Indian all-rounder remained steadfast, insisting on his chef and nutritionist's involvement.?
This glimpse into Pandya's unwavering commitment to his fitness has sparked a lively debate online, with fans split on whether it reflects genuine dedication or is merely a strategic PR move ahead of the competition.
Meanwhile, former India wicket-keeper Parthiv Patel said Hardik Pandya would be under tremendous pressure while leading Mumbai Indians in the upcoming IPL but termed his appointment as captain "a well-thought-out decision" by the franchise.
"Of course, his (Pandya's) captaincy is a talking point. The way he led the side (Gujarat Titans), winning the championship in the first year, a last-ball finish in the final next year, it was a great run at Gujarat Titans," Parthiv told JioCinema.
"Hardik has moved on, is now back in Mumbai, where his cricket started. There will be a lot of expectations from MI because the trophy is long due.
"For MI, qualifying is not a success; it's about winning championships. That's something they must have thought, and it seems like a well-thought decision to get him on board, looking at the future."
Hardik returned to his former franchise, MI, in November from Gujarat Titans. While the franchise made the decision keeping in mind the transition, Rohit Sharma's removal as skipper did not go well with some.
The 17th edition of the IPL begins on March 22, with defending champions Chennai Super Kings locking horns with Royal Challengers Bangalore.
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