NEW DELHI: The question of captaincy in Team India’s white-ball squad remains unresolved, but the succession plan for Mumbai Indians post-Rohit Sharma seems to be taking shape, with Hardik Pandya emerging as a front-runner to lead the team.
Having returned to Mumbai Indians after a successful stint with the Gujarat Titans, where he secured an IPL title in 2021, Hardik brings valuable “leadership” experience to the table, having played a pivotal role in Mumbai Indians’ four IPL titles (2015, 2017, 2019, and 2020).
Former Sri Lanka bowler Dilhara Fernando, who was part of the Mumbai Indians IPL franchise between 2008 and 2011, expressed his belief that Hardik is a suitable choice to captain Mumbai Indians. In an exclusive interview with IANS, Fernando stated, “I think Hardik going to MI is a good choice because he has the leadership qualities. I think after Rohit Sharma, he’ll lead Mumbai Indians, that’s what I feel.”
Fernando reminisced about the competitive spirit and positive dressing room environment during his time with Mumbai Indians, emphasising the culture of senior players sharing their experiences with younger teammates.
Hardik’s association with Mumbai Indians dates back to 2015, and his stellar performances catapulted him into the Indian national team in 2016. His influential role in Mumbai Indians’ IPL triumphs from 2015 to 2021 has further bolstered his standing within the franchise.

Former West Indies batter Dwayne Smith, a member of the Mumbai Indians squad that won the IPL title in 2013, believes that Hardik’s return ahead of IPL 2024 has strengthened the team.
In an exclusive interview on the sidelines of the Legends League Cricket (LLC) 2023 season, Smith praised Mumbai Indians’ culture and expressed optimism about the team’s prospects with Hardik Pandya’s inclusion, stating, “It is good to see him go back. I think it will make them a little stronger.”

The IPL 2024 Auction is slated to take place on December 19 in Dubai.
Mumbai Indians Retained Players: Akash Madhwal, Arjun Tendulkar, Dewald Brevis, Ishan Kishan, Jason Behrendorff, Jasprit Bumrah, Kumar Kartikeya Singh, N. Tilak Varma, Nehal Wadhera, Piyush Chawla, Rohit Sharma, Romario Shepherd (T), Shams Mulani, Surya Kumar Yadav, Tim David, Vishnu Vinod, Hardik Pandya (T).

(With inputs from IANS)