Harbhajan Backs Hardik to Inspire Mumbai Indians’ Bid for Sixth IPL Crown
Former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh believes that the fortunes of the Mumbai Indians in the upcoming Indian Premier League season will largely hinge on how effectively skipper Hardik Pandya performs as an all-rounder and leader.
According to Harbhajan, if Pandya can rediscover the dynamic form he displayed during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, Mumbai could once again emerge as strong contenders for the title.
Speaking during a discussion on JioHotstar’s cricket show Game Plan, the former spinner emphasised that Pandya must rediscover his most impactful version and lead from the front.
Harbhajan pointed out that Pandya’s contributions with both bat and ball are crucial for the franchise if they are to break their prolonged wait for another championship.
Mumbai Indians, one of the most decorated teams in the tournament’s history, have been without an IPL trophy since their triumph in 2020. Harbhajan suggested that the team’s resurgence depends not only on individual brilliance but also on the collective mindset within the squad.
He noted that Pandya’s role as captain extends beyond strategy; the skipper must set the tone through his performances.
If Pandya delivers strongly with the bat while also making meaningful contributions with the ball, it could significantly strengthen Mumbai’s chances.
Harbhajan recalled how the all-rounder impressed during the T20 World Cup, particularly with his bowling, and said that replicating such performances in the IPL would give the team the momentum it needs.
Harbhajan further observed that leadership in cricket often influences the dressing room atmosphere. When a captain leads through performance and determination, it inspires confidence among teammates.
In his view, the Mumbai Indians squad must begin the tournament with the conviction that they are capable of lifting the trophy once again rather than merely participating.
Pandya’s form during the T20 World Cup offered a glimpse of the impact he can make.
The all-rounder produced several important performances with the bat, registering two half-centuries during the competition, including a quickfire 52 from 28 deliveries against Namibia.
He also proved effective with the ball, finishing the tournament with nine wickets and delivering key breakthroughs in crucial moments.
Looking ahead to the upcoming season, the Mumbai Indians are scheduled to launch their IPL 2026 campaign against the Kolkata Knight Riders at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on March 29, 2026.
Following their opening home fixture, the team will travel for consecutive away matches against the Delhi Capitals in Delhi and the Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati.
The side will then return to their home ground to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their fourth match of the tournament.
Mumbai Indians experienced a reasonably strong campaign in the 2025 edition of the IPL under Pandya’s leadership.
The five-time champions staged a late surge in the league phase, registering back-to-back victories to secure a place in the playoffs.
However, their title aspirations came to an end in the Eliminator after suffering a defeat against the Punjab Kings.
With a refreshed squad and renewed expectations, the franchise will now aim to convert its promise into silverware in the forthcoming season.
Much of that ambition, observers believe, will depend on whether Hardik Pandya can deliver match-winning performances while guiding the team with confidence and belief.
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