Irfan Pathan Vs Hardik Pandya 2.0: Renewed War Of Words Amid MI’s IPL 2026 Crisis

Irfan Pathan and Hardik Pandya. [Source - AFP/AP]

Mumbai Indians began IPL 2026 with a promising win in their opener, sparking optimism among fans. However, that momentum faded quickly as the team slipped into a worrying slump, losing four matches in a row and struggling to find consistency in all departments.

All eyes are now firmly on Hardik Pandya, who is going through a tough phase as both captain and player. His batting and bowling outputs have fallen short of expectations, while his on-field decisions are increasingly coming under scrutiny from fans and experts alike.

The defeat against Punjab Kings at Wankhede deepened Mumbai Indians’ crisis further, increasing pressure on Hardik Pandya as captain. Former cricketer Irfan Pathan, already critical of him, once again did not miss the opportunity to question his leadership and role amid Mumbai Indians’ growing struggles in IPL 2026. 

Irfan Pathan vs Hardik Pandya: Growing Tension in the Public Eye

Irfan Pathan and Hardik Pandya’s relationship seems to have become tense, with Pathan openly criticizing Pandya’s performances and leadership in recent years. What used to be simple analysis, now carries a more attacking tone, hinting at a clear disconnect between the two.

Pandya’s on-field actions, like the recent cold stare after the T20 World Cup 2026 win, have added to the rumors. With Mumbai Indians struggling under Hardik Pandya’s captaincy in IPL 2026, Irfan Pathan took the chance once again and delivered a strong critique of Hardik Pandya's performance.

Irfan Pathan flags concerns over Hardik Pandya’s captaincy in IPL 2026

As scrutiny around Hardik Pandya continues to grow, Irfan Pathan delivered a brutal analysis of Mumbai Indians’ struggles in IPL 2026, while also tearing into Hardik Pandya’s recent outings, highlighting his declining batting returns and limited impact with the ball in crucial phases this season.

“Yes, we will talk about his captaincy but Hardik's batting average since 2024 is in the early 20s. We definitely expect better from him as a batter. Even if we talk about his bowling, he needs to do better with his bowling as well, especially inside the powerplay,” Pathan said in his YouTube channel.

Pathan further highlighted some deeper issues beyond numbers, particularly Hardik Pandya’s body language and composure under pressure. With Mumbai Indians struggling for consistency, the spotlight remains on their captain to respond strongly in upcoming matches.

Also Read: Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah Helpless As Hardik Pandya's Captaincy Goes Horribly Wrong

Irfan Pathan doesn’t consider Hardik Pandya a bowler

Irfan Pathan also pointed out major concerns in Mumbai Indians’ bowling unit, highlighting the lack of variety with similar bowlers like Shardul Thakur and Deepak Chahar, who have struggled to deliver breakthroughs, especially in the powerplay this season.

"Mumbai Indians need to play proper wicket-taking bowlers. Out of the five bowlers playing currently, Shardul Thakur and Hardik Pandya are all-rounders, and Deepak Chahar is not taking wickets in the powerplay. They are left with just two bowlers then." Pathan added.

The lack of early wickets has pushed Jasprit Bumrah into a more defensive role according to Irfan Pathan, while also questioning Mumbai Indians’ bowling options, including Hardik Pandya, as unreliable. It has contributed to Bumrah’s wicketless run so far, further exposing MI’s struggles and poor management in IPL 2026.

Also Read: IPL 2026: Fresh Update On Khaleel Ahmed Replacement; Ex-MI Bowler Spotted In CSK Jersey