CSK registered a 20-run victory against MI

Pandya faced criticism for giving Bumrah irregular spells

Pandya has an X-factor about him: Pollard

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) registered a comprehensive 20-run victory against Mumbai Indians (MI) in the Wankhede Stadium on 14th Match. MI captain Hardik Pandya who has had a tough season owing to displeasure from fans due to the change in captaincy faced criticism for some of his decisions such as giving MI pacer Jasprit Bumrah irregular spells and opting to bowl the final over of the innings instead of Akash Madhwal wherein Dhoni struck him for 20 runs in 4 balls. 

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MI batting coach Kieron Pollard has backed Pandya amidst the criticism. “I don’t know if it will affect his confidence. He is a confident guy, he has been great around the group In cricket, you have good days and bad days and I am seeing an individual who is working bloody hard to improve his skills and playing his trade. I am sick and fed up looking to pinpoint individuals; cricket is a team game at the end of the day. This is an individual that is going to represent the country in less than six weeks’ time, and you all are going to cheer him on and want him to do well when the time comes. So high time we try to encourage and stop nitpicking and see if we can get the best out of one of the great all rounders India has produced. He can bat, bowl and field, and has an X-factor about him. I hope very well deep down within my heart that when he comes out on top, I’ll sit back and watch everyone sing his praises,” Pollard remarked after the game.