Mumbai Indians skipper captain Hardik Pandya broke his silence on the captaincy change controversy that struck the franchise after Rohit Sharma was eliminated because the chief of the pack, making approach for the returning all-rounder from Gujarat Titans. Hardik was signed as a commerce from Guajrat, a franchise he determined to hitch two years in the past. In a press convention organised by the Mumbai Indians on Monday, Hardik mentioned that he is not anticipating something awkward between him and Rohit.

“It’s a surreal feeling to be back. Everything that I have known since 2015 has been through this journey. I never thought I’d reach here, and looking forward to playing at the Wankhede, my favourite ground,” Hardik mentioned on his comeback.

When requested in regards to the captaincy change, the all-rounder mentioned that he expects Rohit’s hand on his shoulder each time he feels the necessity.

“Rohit Sharma is Captain of Team India which helps me, what this team has achieved, was achieved under his leadership and I just carry forward. I played whole career under him and I know he will always have his hand on my shoulder,” he mentioned.

Hardik Pandya mentioned “Rohit Sharma is captain of Indian team, which helps me, what this team has achieved, was achieved under his belt – I just carry forward, I played whole career under him and I know, he will always have his hand on my shoulder”. pic.twitter.com/DgBJX1EBDs

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) March 18, 2024

Hardik additionally confirmed that he can be bowling for MI on this season, having beforehand resorted to being solely a batter due to harm considerations.

While the followers’ feelings on the captaincy change saga have been unfavourable at instances, Hardik mentioned that he solely likes to consider the issues he can management.

“I will be bowling. I respect the fans’ emotions but I can only control the controllable. I respect them but I will focus on what I can be doing (as captain),” he mentioned.

When requested if he has had a chat with Rohit because the captaincy change, Hardik mentioned that no concrete chat has been doable because the Hitman has been travelling.

“I haven’t got a lot of time to talk with Rohit because he has been touring. I will definitely catch up when he links up with the team,” he mentioned.