NEW DELHI: Mumbai Indians skipper
Hardik Pandya
has voiced his support for batter
Tilak Varma
's crucial decision after the narrow six-run defeat against the Gujarat Titans (GT) in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 campaign opener.
Pandya's comments shed light on the strategic choices made by the team, reflecting on the dynamics that unfolded in the intense encounter.
"Obviously we backed ourselves to chase those runs but it was one of those days when we see the score quite less compared to what it could have been in five overs, I think we lost a little bit of momentum there," remarked Pandya, addressing the team's approach towards the chase.
He emphasized the significance of maintaining momentum throughout the innings, hinting at a critical juncture where the team may have faltered.
Pandya's acknowledgment of Tilak's decision not to take a single against
Rashid Khan
in the crucial 17th over showcased support for his teammate's judgment.
"I think Tilak felt that that was a better idea at that point of time, I completely backed him, not an issue, 13 games to go," Pandya affirmed, underlining the unity and confidence within the MI camp despite the setback in the opening fixture.
Pandya, who was making a homecoming to his old home ground, also acknowledged the lively atmosphere in the stadium.
"It feels good to be back because this is one stadium where you can enjoy and feel the atmosphere quite lively and obviously the crowd was full and they got a good game as well," he said after the match.
With 13 games remaining in the tournament, MI remain determined to bounce back stronger, drawing inspiration from the unity and resilience demonstrated in the face of adversity.
(With inputs from ANI)
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