'Rohit Sharma's Hand Will Be On My Shoulder' - Hardik Pandya Ahead Of IPL 2024

Hardik Pandya attended his first press conference as MI captain [X.com]

Hardik Pandya tried to quash rumours of a rift between him and his Mumbai Indians (MI) captaincy predecessor Rohit Sharma, stating the experienced head will act as a supporting pillar for him throughout IPL 2024. 

Speaking in his first press conference as MI's new captain on Monday (March 18), the franchise's comeback allrounder, who would be hoping to replicate his leadership success with Gujarat Titans (GT) over the next two months, insisted there would be "no awkwardness" between the two. 

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Pandya's controversial ascent to Mumbai captaincy after the sacking of Rohit despite the latter winning five trophies in the IPL had created a stir amongst the franchise's passionate fanbase and led to a social media backlash, with speculations also rife that the two aren't on best of terms anymore. 

Pandya On Rohit Ahead Of IPL 2024

For Pandya, however, there is no loss of respect and admiration between the two giants of Indian cricket and he is looking forward to Rohit's support on and off the field in his first season as Mumbai captain. 

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"I know Rohit Sharma’s hand will be on my shoulder throughout the season. I have played for close to ten years under his captaincy, no awkwardness," the new skipper said during the media interaction held in Mumbai. 

The 30-year-old cricketer also indicated he has been in touch with Rohit in the days leading into the season, where MI kickstart their campaign against his old franchise the Titans in Ahmedabad on March 24 in what will certainly be an emotionally challenging occasion for the man from Baroda. 

Pandya's biggest test will be to continue the legacy which Rohit has had in MI jersey, helping transform the side's fortunes from the also-rans of the IPL cricket in the league's initial years to becoming the joint-most successful team alongside arch-rivals Chennai Super Kings (CSK). 

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