Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 The season continues to unfold Mumbai Indians (MI)Both inside and outside the field. After a high-scoring defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) At Wankhede Stadium, Captain hardik pandya Made headlines by addressing an unusual concern – home crowds cheering for opposition teams. His comments not only highlight the team’s poor form, but also the apparent shift in fan sentiment during a difficult campaign.
Hardik Pandya takes a dig at fans after support for opposition teams increases at Wankhede
Mumbai Indians’ struggles took a new turn after the defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad, with Pandya openly addressing the lack of crowd support.
After another defeat, Pandya did not limit his thoughts to just on-field performance. Instead, he turned his attention to the stands, acknowledging the growing trend of home fans cheering for opposition teams. The reaction comes at a time when Mumbai Indians are at the bottom of the points table with just two wins from eight matches.
Pandya admitted that the team’s performance has not given fans enough reason to rally behind them, but he also said that it can be frustrating to hear the chants for visiting teams at home. Speaking candidly after the game, Pandya struck a balanced tone, mixing honesty with accountability. He acknowledged the fans’ loyalty but pointed to the emotional impact of divided support.
He said that although the fans have been largely supportive, it hurts when opposition players get a rousing welcome at Wankhede. However, he was quick to add that the onus is on the team to perform better and win back that trust.
“Yes, I think we haven’t given them many chances to support us. But yes, they have been brilliant. They have been loyal. They have been brilliant. Yes, sometimes it hurts when the opposition team comes and they start chanting our name. We need to entertain them more to make sure we get that love and belief from them.” Hardik said in the presentation after the match.
Also read: Ryan Rickelton hits sensational record-breaking century against SRH in IPL 2026, fans go crazy
SRH’s fearless chase stuns Mumbai
The match itself summed up Mumbai’s campaign – flashes of brilliance overshadowed obvious weaknesses. Batting first, MI posted a strong total of 243, a score that would normally be enough to ensure victory at the Wankhede.
Ryan Rickelton The exceptional performer played a sensational inning of 123 not out. His innings was a mix of power and accuracy and he carried the innings beautifully. He got solid support from here will jacksWho scored a quick 42 runs, while Pandya played a quick inning of 30 runs.
If Mumbai’s batting impressed, Hyderabad’s target was easy to achieve. travis head And Abhishek Sharma Provided a blistering start, immediately putting pressure on the MI bowlers. Once the foundation has been laid, heinrich classen Ensured that there was no reduction in speed. The target was chased with remarkable composure, as SRH chased the big target without any panic and recorded the most successful run chase at the venue.
The big concern for Mumbai is about their bowling performance. There was a clear lack of penetration and control, with no bowler able to exert sustained pressure. even the spear Jasprit Bumrah Suffered a rare off day, conceding heavy wickets and finishing without taking a wicket – a reflection of the team’s overall struggles.