Tim David defends Hardik Pandya’s scoring rate, calls him the “glue” of Mumbai Indians’ batting lineup

Mumbai Indians’ Tim David Defends Hardik Pandya’s Scoring Rate in IPL 2024

NEW DELHI: Mumbai Indians’ all-rounder Tim David has come to the defense of skipper Hardik Pandya’s scoring rate in the ongoing IPL, highlighting his crucial role as the “glue” holding the batting together for the five-time champions.

Despite Pandya scoring at a rate of 138.46, accumulating 108 runs in four matches while batting at various positions, there have been observations of his inability to accelerate the innings, particularly in the middle and lower order this season.

In the opening match against his former team, the Gujarat Titans, Pandya faced pressure and managed only an 11-run innings off four balls in a challenging chase. Similarly, in the subsequent match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, the MI skipper could only muster a 24-run innings off 20 balls batting at No. 5, chasing a daunting target of 278.

Pandya showcased his prowess on a challenging pitch against Rajasthan Royals, leading the scoring with a commendable 34 off 21 balls in a low-scoring encounter. However, his innings of 39 runs off 33 balls in the last match stood in stark contrast to the aggressive approach of other Mumbai Indians batters, although the team managed to achieve its highest total of 234/5 at home.

“We have had conversations about how we have played. Hardik has been playing a really important job for our team,” David told the media during Mumbai Indians’ training session at the Wankhede Stadium.

David emphasized that Pandya’s role as the glue holding the innings together allows other players to play with freedom at the back end, despite some criticism of his scoring rate.

“Hardik has been phenomenal in the way he has been playing for the team. That is what we need at some point. Sometimes it is me, sometimes it is other guys,” David added.

The Australian all-rounder expressed full faith in Pandya’s abilities and highlighted his potential to win games for Mumbai Indians with his power-hitting skills.

With PTI inputs, the Mumbai Indians are gearing up for their clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, where Pandya will look to continue his crucial role in the team’s batting line-up.