Mumbai Indians all-rounder Hardik Pandya has reportedly expressed his displeasure with the lack of commitment from senior players in the team and wants to leave the franchise. Pandya, who has been leading the team since IPL 2024 has had a disastrous season individually as well as the captain of the five-time IPL champions. Following the season, there have been several speculations around the future of MI skipper and one of them is that the team is looking for a new face to take control of the leadership.
Now, another report has started to make rounds, according to which, the star all-rounder has informed the side to leave the franchise. Reports by PTI suggest that he has already informed the management about the decision and the reason behind the same is the lack of commitment from a few senior stars on the side. Notably, the five-time champions finished ninth on the standings with just 8 points in 14 games.
During the season, Pandya even missed out a few games due to back spasm, as well as couldn’t put on a decent performance with the bat or the ball. Notably, Pandya rejoined his original franchise in 2024 after a successful stint with the Gujarat Titans. However, things didn’t go as expected for the side except in one season, and the MI skipper has decided to part ways with the team.
He wouldn't be staying back: Media sources on Hardik Pandya’s decision to leave franchise
Talking about his decision to leave the legendary team, a source told PTI, "Hardik was mentally stressed and completely exhausted. He had also sustained a back injury. In fact, once the play-off hopes were dashed, Hardik informed the decision-makers that he wouldn't be staying back.” "Please understand that Hardik is only 32. He returned to MI in 2024 when he was 30. He was booed in the first year, and this season, too, things didn't go according to plan," it added.
“There is only so much that a young man can take. The last three years haven't been easy for him. The MI dressing room that he had left in 2021 wasn't the same when he returned in 2024. Not every senior player was on the same page,” added the source.
“If results come despite divergent views, you still won't feel frustrated. But when everyone pulls in different directions, after a point, you don't have the mental bandwidth to carry on. So, Hardik had decided mid-season that he wouldn't be part of MI next season. One thing is for sure. He is done with MI. Closer to August, one might get some indication about what his next move will be.”
Notably, in the IPL 2026 season, Pandya could score only 206 runs in 10 games while dismissing four wickets.
