WATCH: Hardik Pandya commands Rohit Sharma to 'go back' to boundary rope during GT vs MI's clash, this is how ex-captain reacted

Despite the Mumbai Indians' opening match loss to the Gujarat Titans (GT) on Sunday, March 24, their new captain Hardik Pandya, asserted his leadership from the get-go. A now-viral video captured a moment during the GT's innings at the Narendra Modi Stadium where Pandya directed Rohit Sharma, the former Mumbai Indians captain, around the field. This came as a surprise to Rohit, who is often seen fielding within the 30-yard circle. The newly appointed MI captain Hardik displayed his animated leadership style as he meticulously adjusted the field placements for the final over during the GT's innings. Intrigued by the strategy, the video shows Pandya requesting Rohit to move from his usual position within the 30-yard circle to a deeper fielding position near the boundary rope. Pandya didn't stop there, he guided Rohit to shift even further to the right, ensuring apt positioning for bowler Gerald Coetzee. However, Rohit, who for moment was surprised by Hardik ushering him to the boundary rope, displayed a real team's man spirit, seen obeying his newly recruited captain.

ALSO READ: In wake of BCCI's contract snub, Jay Shah and Ishan Kishan's on-field conversation after GT vs MI's IPL 2024 clash sparks hope

WATCH THE VIDEO HERE…

Tensions simmered after the MI's loss defeat in their IPL 2024's campaign opener. Hardik sending former MI skipper to boundary rope didn't sit well with the fans, as some of them took offense at the positioning of Rohit during the final over. This sparked social media backlash aimed at Hardik, the current captain.

ALSO READ: 'We lost little bit of momentum there...': Hardik Pandya reveals big reason behind MI's 6-run defeat against GT in IPL 2024's campaign opener

Hardik Pandya's men go down to GT

Ironically, Rohit even displayed his commitment to the team by securing a rare deep catch in the eighth over. He snagged Shubman Gill's mistimed shot off Piyush Chawla's bowling, proving his dedication. Hardik's homecoming wasn't as warm as he might have anticipated. Ahmedabad crowd was seen booing him during the toss. This reaction likely stemmed from his trade away from the Gujarat Titans, the team he captained to victory in 2022 and a runner-up finish in 2023.  His return to Mumbai Indians seems to have ruffled some feathers among the Ahmedabad fans.

In a disappointing season opener for the Mumbai Indians, Hardik's men fell short by just six runs against the Gujarat Titans. Chasing a modest target of 169, their batting faltered in the end. A strong start was undone as they lost their last five wickets for a mere 32 runs, failing to chase down the remaining 43 runs in their final five overs. 

MORE ON SPORTS TAK: 

Watch: Rohit Sharma gets involved in animated chat with Hardik Pandya after he hugs him post 6-run loss in Mumbai Indians owner Anant Ambani's presence

Hardik Pandya booed by Ahmedabad crowd, chants of 'Rohit-Rohit' echo in stadium during GT vs MI clash; watch video

Retired in 2020, Pakistan pacer unretires himself ahead of T20 World Cup 2024 after discussions with PCB

Gautam Gambhir reacts after Harshit Rana’s heroics pull off thrilling win for KKR over SRH, says ‘…till the end’

Massive financial boost for Mumbai cricketers, MCA to give BCCI-level match fee to its Ranji team players