“Once Rohit Was Back…”: Hardik Pandya Opens Up On Tactical Shuffle After MI’s Loss To RCB

Hardik Pandya addresses Mumbai Indians’ defeat, Rohit Sharma’s return, and controversial batting order change after falling short in a high-scoring clash against RCB.

April 8, 2025: Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya didn’t hold back after his team suffered a 27-run defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Wankhede Stadium on Monday. In what turned into a run-fest, RCB posted 221, and though MI threatened a comeback during a dangerous partnership between Tilak Varma and Pandya, it wasn’t enough.

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Speaking at the post-match presentation, Pandya admitted the pitch heavily favoured batters:

“It was a run-fest. The wicket was really good. I was just telling myself, again we fell short by two hits.”

Despite defending his bowlers, Pandya highlighted that execution at the death was an area of concern:

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“You can stop the batters, but I don’t want to be harsh on the bowlers. It was a tough track, not many options.”

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The Rohit Sharma Effect

Rohit Sharma, who missed MI’s previous match due to injury, returned to the XI as an Impact Player. Although he scored a brisk 17 off 9, his return prompted a batting order reshuffle—one that sent Naman Dhir, who scored 46 at No. 3 in the last match, down to No. 7.

Also Read: IPL 2025: Devdutt Padikkal Commends Rajat Patidar’s Leadership As RCB Win 3 Of 4 Matches

Pandya clarified the move:

“In the last game, Ro wasn’t available, so we had to push someone up. Once he was back, we knew Naman would have to come down. He has that multidimensional game.”

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On Tilak Varma & Tactical Decisions

Pandya also addressed the criticism over Tilak Varma’s controversial tactical substitution in MI’s last match, revealing it was due to an injury scare:

“He had a nasty hit on his finger. The coach felt someone fresh was better suited. But today, Tilak was fantastic.”

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On Jasprit Bumrah’s Return

After a three-month injury layoff, Jasprit Bumrah returned to MI’s bowling attack. While he went wicketless, his economy rate of 7.20 was impressive considering the pitch.

“Having Bumrah makes any team in the world very special. We’re just happy to have him back.”

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Looking Ahead

Pandya concluded on a positive note, urging the team to keep their heads high:

“In life, never back down. Go out there, try to play your best cricket and back yourself. We’re all backing each other and hoping the results will follow.”

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