Hardik Pandya has been perceived as a villain by some fans after taking over as captain of Mumbai Indians from Rohit Sharma. He faced a hostile reception from Gujarat Titans fans in Ahmedabad, who booed him and held up posters criticizing
him for leaving the franchise after just two years. However, he may have expected a friendlier atmosphere in Hyderabad for the match between SRH and MI, but the fans did not spare him.
Whenever he bowled, the fans cheered for him. Even while fielding, Hardik was not given a break.
In just a few months, he has become one of the most disliked cricketers. Despite opening the bowling for the five-time champions, he was unable to make an impact with the ball. Although he did dismiss Mayank Agarwal, the MI captain conceded 46 runs from 4 overs.
He joined Gujarat in 2022 after being released by MI. In the first season, the star player led the franchise to its maiden IPL title, and the team reached the finals of the next season but lost to the Chennai Super Kings.
During the ICC World Cup 2023, he had a conversation with MI officials and decided to return to his former franchise. Mumbai gave him the captain's armband after sacking Rohit, which was a surprising move.
He may face more aggressive behaviour when Mumbai plays its first game at the Wankhede Stadium.