IPL 2025: Harbhajan Praises Hardik's Self-Belief as a Distinctive Trait
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Synopsis
Harbhajan Singh emphasizes that Hardik Pandya's unwavering self-belief distinguishes him from others, even as he faces a one-match suspension at the start of IPL 2025. The former cricketer is optimistic about Pandya's potential to lead Mumbai Indians effectively this season.
Key Takeaways
- Hardik Pandya is suspended for the opening match of IPL 2025.
- Former spinner Harbhajan Singh highlights Pandya’s self-belief.
- Pandya's journey from a rookie to a confident leader is commendable.
- He played a key role in helping Team India win two ICC trophies.
- Harbhajan anticipates a strong performance from Pandya this season.
New Delhi, March 21 (NationPress) Although Hardik Pandya will be absent from the Mumbai Indians' opening match in IPL 2025 against the Chennai Super Kings this Sunday in Chennai due to a one-match suspension from last year’s IPL, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh asserts that the all-rounder’s self-belief sets him apart from his peers.
IPL 2025 is poised to be a crucial tournament for Pandya, the captain who led the team to victory in IPL 2022 but faced a challenging last season on multiple fronts. The decision by MI management to appoint him as captain, replacing Rohit Sharma after his stint with Gujarat Titans, led to the crowd booing him during the initial phase of IPL 2024, despite the five-time champions finishing at the bottom of the points table.
“From the moment he joined the team in 2015, he exhibited a high level of confidence. He has consistently maintained a positive attitude, believing he can achieve great things. His positive instinct has only improved since then,” Harbhajan remarked.
“Now, he possesses even greater self-confidence and has demonstrated it on the field. This is one of his most significant strengths that distinguishes him from others. With nearly 10 years of experience under his belt—not just in IPL but also in extensive international cricket—he’s in a strong position,” Harbhajan, a JioStar expert, stated in a virtual interaction with IANS ahead of the tournament's 18th edition.
Harbhajan recalls watching a young Pandya debut as a rookie in the illustrious MI set-up and shine during the 2015 IPL, and he believes that the all-rounder still retains the confidence and positivity from that time to emerge as a stronger leader in this upcoming tournament.
“It’s impressive to witness his growth with the Mumbai Indians over the years, especially after leading GT for two successful years. While last year was not his best due to returning to MI, I believe he has moved past that. He has played a pivotal role in helping Team India secure two ICC trophies since then. I anticipate that this year, Hardik Pandya will excel in both his captaincy and skills. When you are at peace and happy, it reflects positively on your team,” he added.
“Therefore, I hope to see the finest version of Hardik Pandya this season, as it appears that the setbacks of last year have been left behind, allowing for a fresh start. I am optimistic that both he and his team will perform at their peak when it matters most,” Harbhajan concluded.
