Xtra Time Web Desk: Mumbai Indians all-rounder and newly appointed skipper Hardik Pandya is set to play his 100th game for MI as they lock horns with Rajasthan Royals at Jaipur’s Sawai Mansingh Stadium on 22st April, Monday. In an exciting clash between two batting powerhouses, RR will meet MI for the second time in the IPL 2024 at their home stadium. This will be the Royals’ fifth and final encounter in Jaipur this season, having won three and lost one in their previous encounters here.
Hardik had two superb years with Gujarat Titans, before returning to MI. He will adorn the blue and gold jersey for the 100th time. Pandya represented MI from 2015-21 and played a crucial role in their championship wins from 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020. Then, he went to Gujarat Titans from 2022-23, winning the title for them in their debut season.
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In 99 matches for MI, Hardik has scored 1,617 runs at an average of 26.95 and a strike rate of 153.27, including four half-centuries. His best score is 91*. He also took 46 wickets with the best figures of 3.20.
While playing for Gujarat, he scored 833 runs in 31 matches at an average of 37.86 and a strike rate of 133.49, with six fifties. His best score is 87*. He also took 11 wickets, with the best spell of 3.17. captained the side to a trophy in the debut season itself and was the runners up in the next season.
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Overall, in 130 matches, he has scored 2,450 in his IPL career at an average of 29.88 and a strike rate of over 145, with 10 fifties. His best score is 91*. He has also taken 57 wickets, with the best figures of 3/17. This season has been underwhelming for Pandya on his return to MI. In seven matches, he has scored 141 runs at an average of 23.50 and a strike rate of 146.88, with the best score of 39. He has also taken just four wickets in this season. After all the boos, Hardik will be expecting for a new start.