Watch: Under Fire Pandya Delivers Rousing Speech Amid MI's Dismal Show

Mumbai Indians’ newly-appointed captain Hardik Pandya came out with an insipiring speech for his unit in the dressing room post the side’s 31-run loss at the hands of SunRisers Hyderabad at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Wednesday. Pat Cummins-led SRH posted the highest-ever Indian Premier League total — 277 for 3 — and went on to beat Mumbai Indians by 31 runs in a six-hitting festival. Mumbai replied strongly in the match, which witnessed 38 sixes for another IPL record, but ended on 246 for 5 in their stipulated quota of 20 overs.

“The toughest soldiers get the toughest test and we are the toughest team in the competition. Anyone who could have come even close to where we reached as a batting group are us.” said Hardikin a video shared by Mumbai Indians on social media.

The bowlers of both the sides had a poor outing, especially those of Mumbai Indians. With figures of 1 for 36 in four overs, Jasprit Bumrah was the best MI bowler.

“Something that I am really proud of is our bowlers. Even when the day was tough, I didn’t see anyone running away. Everyone wanted the ball (in their hands), I think that’s a good sight,” said Hardik.

“Let’s make sure we help each other throughout, whatever happens, worst, bad, good, we will manage it together. And we will be together.”

“Toughest soldiers get the toughest test”

Sachin & Hardik with some inspiring words after #SRHvMI #MumbaiMeriJaan #MumbaiIndians pic.twitter.com/yTkPCcuXQB

— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) March 28, 2024

Hardik’s captaincy has come under a lot of scrutiny in the first two games in IPL 2024. The player, who replaced five-time IPL winner Rohit Sharma in the role ahead of IPL 2024, is yet to win his first game for Mumbai in the ongoing season.

Mumbai Indians lost their opening game of IPL 2024 against Gujarat Titans by a six-run margin, while in the second game against SunRisers Hyderabad, they suffered a 31-run defeat.