Hardik Pandya’s absence is definitely hurting Gujarat Titans: Aakash Chopra

Gujarat Titans slumped to their fourth defeat of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season after they were comprehensively outplayed by Delhi Capitals at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Wednesday, April 17. Former India opener Aakash Chopra reckoned that Hardik Pandya's presence might not have benefitted Mumbai Indians as yet but his absence is hurting the Titans.

In a shocking turn of events, Hardik, who led Gujarat to the title in their maiden appearance in 2022, was drafted to Mumbai Indians last year. The Baroda all-rounder replaced Rohit Sharma as the captain of the five-time IPL-winning franchise, a move that received widespread criticism. Under Hardik's leadership, Mumbai have lost four and won two out of their six matches and are languishing at No. 9 on the points table.

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Meanwhile, Gujarat announced Shubman Gill as Hardik's successor, but the talented youngster is experiencing turbulence in his new role. The Titans dropped to No. 7 on the points table after their shambolic loss to the Capitals on Wednesday. After bowling out the Gujarat-based franchise for 89, Delhi chased the paltry target inside nine overs, with six wickets to spare. Chopra said that the Titans are struggling to fill the void left by Hardik's absence.

"Hardik Pandya’s presence might not have benefited Mumbai Indians yet…but his absence is definitely hurting Gujarat Titans this season!!! #IPL," Chopra wrote on his official 'X' handle.

Mumbai Indians look to bounce back against Punjab Kings on Thursday

Hardik and Co. started their IPL 2024 campaign with three consecutive defeats before winning a couple of games on the bounce. However, their brief winning streak ended when they lost to Chennai Super Kings by 20 runs last week.

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On Thursday, April 18, Mumbai will face Punjab Kings at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur in search of two crucial points. These two teams have a history of playing closely contested encounters. Fans would love to witness another riveting affair between the two teams on Thursday.