Former South Africa wicketkeeper Mark Boucher said that IPL 2024 has been really tough for Hardik Pandya and he truly deserves better than getting booed by home fans every time he steps onto the field. Boucher believes that Pandya has become a stronger player because of all the experiences he faced last season.
It was a rough IPL for Pandya after he took over as captain of Mumbai from Rohit Sharma. Many Mumbai fans weren’t happy with this change and booed him at every opportunity in the Wankhede Stadium. But things have changed now, and Pandya is likely to receive more support from the crowd after his important role in India’s wins at the T20 World Cup and the Champions Trophy
. “Last season was tough for him. He was getting booed every time he played. He deserves better, he deserves respect, Boucher said on JioHotstar. “No player wants to go through that, but he’s tough, he added.
Boucher was with the Mumbai team when Pandya took over and saw how he handled the backlash.
“He’s a tough player. He’s faced injuries, form issues, and more, but he got through it all and found success. Great players need to be tough, and he has shown that, Boucher mentioned. “IPL is better with Hardik on the field, and cricket is better with him playing, he added.
Meanwhile, Pandya talked about the Impact Player rule being extended for three more years, saying it’s crucial for players to be true all-rounders to secure a spot in the playing XI
. “Right now, it’s tough if you’re not a complete all-rounder to find your place. This may change in the future, but we’ll see, Pandya told the press. Unfortunately, he will miss Mumbai’s first match on Sunday, March 23, due to a suspension for over-rate issues. Suryakumar Yadav will be stepping in as captain.
