India, April 30 -- In December 2023, Mumbai Indians brought Hardik Pandya back to much fanfare and adulation. They made him captain, believing he could turn MI's fortunes around. After all, Hardik had enjoyed two very successful seasons with Gujarat Titans, leading them to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 title and a runner-up finish the following year. With MI struggling under Rohit Sharma - having gone three years without a trophy - the succession plan seemed plausible: bring back Hardik, hand him the reins, and reclaim the glory days.

However, the last three seasons have been anything but merry for the five-time champions. In IPL 2024, Hardik was booed by the crowd as MI finished last. The following year was much better, with MI q...