WATCH: Virat Kohli Gestures Crowd As Hardik Pandya Gets Booed By MI Supporters During RCB Vs MI Match

MUMBAI: Despite the Mumbai Indians’ return to form with a second victory, newly appointed skipper Hardik Pandya continues to face criticism from fans. The five-time champions secured a crucial win by defeating the Royal Challengers Bangalore on Thursday, bouncing back from three consecutive defeats the previous week.

The victory was propelled by Jasprit Bumrah’s exceptional five-wicket haul, complemented by stellar batting performances from Ishan Kishan (69), Rohit Sharma (38), Suryakumar Yadav (52), Hardik Pandya (21), and Tilak Varma (16).

However, amidst the celebrations, attention was drawn to an unfortunate incident as Hardik Pandya once again faced boos from his own Mumbai Indians supporters at the iconic Wankhede Stadium.

In response to the unwelcome reception, Virat Kohli intervened, urging the fans to cease the booing and instead show support for the MI skipper.

Kohli not appreciating the booing of hardik by Wankhede crowd. Telling them to cheer and reminding them he's an India player #MIvsRCB 👌 pic.twitter.com/ok5SYa3AkA
— Vighnesh Rane (@Vighrane01) April 11, 2024

Asking crowd to cheer up for Pandya, this is true sportsmanship. He took a stand for Steve smith, Naveen ul haq and now for Hardik. Proud to stan this guy ❤️pic.twitter.com/wLJuKl9xGo
— Yashvi (@BreatheKohli) April 11, 2024

Earlier in the match, the Royal Challengers Bangalore posted a competitive total of 196/8, courtesy of skipper Faf du Plessis’s 61, Rajat Patidar’s 50, and Dinesh Karthik’s explosive unbeaten 53 off 23 balls.

However, Mumbai Indians comfortably chased down the target in just 15.3 overs, securing victory with seven wickets in hand.

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