Bibhu Prasad Ray

In this IPL 2024, nothing is going right for 5-time champions Mumbai Indians as they suffered yet another humiliating loss to Kolkata Knight Riders at the Wankhede Stadium. Led by Hardik Pandya, the men in blue jersey have failed to perform well throughout this season. 

Ever since, Hitman Rohit Sharma was replaced as the captain of the team, MI has not only failed to perform well but also is getting booed by every cricket lover. The captain's replacement seems to come as a curse for the team. Back-to-back losses have left fans disappointed but has drawn criticism from all quarters.

Speaking on this issue, veteran India opener Virender Sehwag questioned MI's tactics and slammed the team for their poor performance.

“I'm baffled by this. Management must take severe action on players and ask them what's happening. Or, players should speak up about why their batting positions are changed. The captain, batting coach, bowling coach, and support staff are at fault here. Owners need to ask strict questions.”

Talking about the match, MI had a poor start with wickets falling at regular intervals. Surya Kumar Yadav’s 56 was only the shining light for MI as KKR stuck to their plans and applied the pressure game on Mumbai at their home den. 

“Hardik Pandya batted at 4 consistently when he was the GT captain. What has happened here? It baffles me that the experienced players are coming so low.” Sehwag added.  

“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? If you were qualified for playoffs, you might have experimented. You are barely winning, and you are experimenting with the batting order,” Sehwag said.

With this vital win against MI, KKR has boosted their chances of going into the playoffs with 14 points. On the other side,  Mumbai Indians are placed 9 at the table with 6 points and will now play for pride in the remaining matches.

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