Gambhir Defends Pandya Amidst Leadership Criticism

Gautam Gambhir Defends Hardik Pandya Amidst Leadership Criticism

Kolkata Knight Riders mentor Gautam Gambhir has come to the defense of Mumbai Indians skipper Hardik Pandya, who has faced criticism for his leadership skills. The five-time IPL champions have struggled under Pandya's captaincy, leading to criticism from former players like AB de Villiers and Kevin Pietersen.

Gambhir dismissed the criticism, arguing that de Villiers and Pietersen have not achieved anything significant as leaders. "It's not important what experts are saying," Gambhir said. "My opinion has always been that you judge someone's captaincy by his team's performance."

He emphasized that Pandya needs time to adjust to his new role. "Hardik Pandya has come from some other franchise so it takes time," Gambhir said. "Give him some time. Suddenly, you expect him to deliver at Mumbai, after captaining for two years at Gujarat."

Gambhir also criticized de Villiers and Pietersen for their lack of leadership experience. "Those experts who have criticized him, they should see their own performances when they have captained a side," Gambhir said. "Whether it's AB de Villiers or Kevin Pietersen, I don't think in their career there is any performance of leadership, nothing."

Despite Pandya's struggles, Gambhir believes he has the potential to be a successful captain. "He could have delivered, I am not saying he couldn't have," Gambhir said. "But if he hasn't, it's fine, give him a bit more time."

Pandya has scored 200 runs and taken 11 wickets in 13 matches this season. Mumbai Indians are out of playoff contention with nine defeats in 13 matches. They will play their final game against Lucknow Super Giants on May 17.

Tags: #HardikPandya, #GautamGambhir, #MumbaiIndians, #IPL2023, #Leadership